Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole

*Parsley*'s Note:

No canned soup or cheese whiz needed for this one, but still easy to make! You could substitute 4 cups frozen broccoli flowerets, just cook them and break them up more.

• Total Time: 40 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 30 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 8

• 3 cups hot cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 bunch broccoli, washed and broken into very small flowerets (should be 4 cups after cooking)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 -2 1/4 cups low-fat milk
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 cups shredded extra sharp white cheddar cheese (or sharp or regualar)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350. Lightly grease/spray a casserole dish; set aside.
2. Place your 3 cups hot cooked rice in a large bowl and set aside.
3. Steam/microwave the broccoli flowerets until fork-tender; drain (you should have 4 cups cooked flowerets) and place in bowl with hot cooked rice; set a side.
4. In a small saucepan, over med-low heat, melt butter; add onion and saute for about 3-4 minutes. Add in milk and beaten egg; stir well. Add in the cheese, salt, pepper and paprika. Continue to cook, stirring often, until cheese is melted. Pour this mixture over broccoli and rice in the large bowl. Stir together well to evenly coat.
5. Pour mixture into prepared casserole dish. Bake, uncovered at 350 for 30 minutes.

Reviews

[JSkizzle]

This was very good! I've eaten it at restaurants before but never tried to make it at home until now. I used frozen broccoli instead of fresh. My BF and friends devoured it and said it was great and everyone agreed I definitely need to make this again which I will. Thanks!

[Chef #1202794]

Thank you so much for posting a recipe that didn't use canned soup or jarred cheese! It's a terrific recipe. I just added a little bit more seasonings. Thanks again!

[mjlovelace]

I make this for my husband all the time. I knew he loved when he passed up the mashed potatoes (his fav) for seconds of this casserole. I usually cut back the cheese a bit and increase the broccoli and it is still very rich and flavorful. It is also fine with frozen broccoli florets, as long as they are good quality. Thanks!