Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 55 mins
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 190  C
Servings: 6
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

This Cheesy Rice Bake with Broccoli & Garlic is a cozy, family-friendly casserole packed with creamy cheese, tender rice, roasted garlic, and fresh broccoli florets. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or potlucks. This easy-to-make, oven-baked dish brings comforting flavors and a golden cheesy crust to your table in under an hour.

Ingredients
    For the Base:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil — for sautéing
  • 4 cloves garlic — finely minced
  • 1 medium onion — finely chopped
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice — uncooked, rinsed
  • 2 cups vegetable broth — or chicken broth for non-vegetarian option
  • 1/2 tsp salt — or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper — freshly ground
  • 1/4 tsp paprika — optional
    • For the Veggies:
  • 2 cups broccoli florets — chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas — optional for sweetness and color
    • For the Cheese Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cups 1.5 milk — whole or 2%
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese — shredded
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese — shredded
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese — grated
    • For the Topping:
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs — optional for crunch
  • 1/4 cup cheddar cheese — shredded
  • 1 tbsp olive oil — to drizzle
Instructions
    Prepare and Cook the Aromatics
  1. 1
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the rice and cook for another 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted.
    2. Cook the Rice
  2. 2
    Add the vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and paprika to the skillet. Stir and bring to a simmer. Cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and cook for 12–15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
    3. Steam the Broccoli
  3. 3
    While the rice cooks, steam the broccoli in a separate pot or microwave it for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Set aside.
    4. Make the Cheese Sauce
  4. 4
    In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually add milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until thickened (about 3–4 minutes), then stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy.
    5. Combine Everything
  5. 5
    Preheat oven to 190°C. In a large mixing bowl or the same skillet (if oven-safe), combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, peas (if using), and cheese sauce. Mix well. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
    6. Add Toppings and Bake
  6. 6
    Top with breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar, and drizzle of olive oil. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for a crispier top, if desired.
    7. Rest and Serve
  7. 7
    Let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving to help it set. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Note

Make it a Meal: Add cooked shredded chicken or cooked sausage to the rice mixture before baking for a heartier version.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Freezer-Friendly: Assemble and freeze unbaked for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.

Cheese Swap: Use gouda, Monterey Jack, or Swiss for a different flavor twist.

Keywords: cheesy rice casserole, broccoli rice bake, garlic cheese bake, easy dinner recipe, vegetarian comfort food
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/cheesy-rice-bake-with-broccoli-garlic-recipe/