Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake Recipe: A Southern Comfort Classic
There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting feel of a cheesy broccoli rice bake fresh out of the oven, especially when it carries the flavor and heart of Southern cooking.
Our Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with wholesome rice and tender broccoli florets.
Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a Sunday dinner, or a cozy weeknight meal, this easy-to-make dish will fill your kitchen with the inviting aroma of Southern comfort food.
Ingredients You Will Need:
- chopped broccoli florets
- rice of your choice (long grain, basmati, or even brown rice work well)
- beef broth or stock
- salt
- black pepper
- minced garlic
- butter
- shredded sharp cheddar cheese
One-Dish Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake – Simple, Southern, Satisfying
The Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake captures the heart of Southern cuisine with its creamy texture, rich cheese, and comforting flavors. In true Southern fashion, this dish pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, brisket, or pork chops.
The earthy broccoli and bold cheddar cheese complement each other, while the rice soaks up all the savory goodness of the beef broth. Every bite of this dish is a delightful reminder of the simplicity and warmth that Southern cooking is known for.
From Sunday dinners with loved ones to weeknight meals, this versatile recipe fits seamlessly into any occasion. The combination of cheese, broccoli, and rice is timeless, making this dish a favorite in Southern homes across generations.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake
- Customize the cheese: While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for an extra kick of flavor.
- Add protein: Make it a one-dish meal by adding cooked chicken, turkey, or ham to the bake before putting it in the oven.
- Use different broths: If you prefer, chicken or vegetable broth can replace beef broth for a slightly different flavor profile.
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake
Equipment
- 1 large baking pan
Ingredients
- ½ pound chopped broccoli florets
- 2 cups rice of your choice (long grain, jasmine, basmati, or even brown rice work well)
- 1 (32 oz) carton beef broth or stock ( add vegetable stock to make it vegan )
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese ( add plant-based cheese to make it vegan )
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the baking pan by lightly greasing a large baking dish.
- Mix the ingredients: In the baking dish, combine the broccoli florets, rice, beef broth, salt, pepper, minced garlic, and butter. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
- Add the cheese: Sprinkle 1½ cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the mixture, and stir it in gently.
- Cover and bake: Cover the dish with foil to keep the moisture in and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 30–40 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Add the final touch: Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top, and return to the oven for another 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot: Let the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the rich, cheesy flavor alongside your favorite Southern main dishes.
