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- 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth - 2 cups fresh broccoli florets - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with our Cheesy Broccoli Bliss Casserole recipe! This dish perfectly balances creamy sharp cheddar and rich cream cheese with the wholesome crunch of fresh broccoli, creating a nourishing meal your whole family will love. With simple ingredients and versatile options for dietary needs, this casserole is ideal for both vegetarian and meat-loving households. Make it for dinner and enjoy the delightful flavors that bring everyone together!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)

2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for non-vegetarian)

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup milk (or plant-based milk)

1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Sauté Broccoli: In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the fresh broccoli florets and sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Remove the broccoli from the pan and set aside.

      Cook Rice: In the same pan, add the uncooked rice and toast it for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes slightly golden.

        Mix Ingredients: Pour in the vegetable broth and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil.

          Add Dairy: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the milk and cream cheese until fully combined. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.

            Combine: Add the sautéed broccoli back into the pan and mix gently. Then, sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese over the top, stirring a little to incorporate it into the mixture.

              Bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the mixture. If desired, top with breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping. Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

                Cool and Serve: Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 4-6 servings