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If you're on the lookout for a comforting yet nutritious dish that brings together the delightful flavors of cheese and the wholesome goodness of broccoli, look no further than the Creamy Broccoli Rice Bake. This recipe is a harmonious blend of creamy textures and cheesy goodness, making it a hit for both adults and children alike. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty main course or a satisfying side dish, this bake is bound to please the palate and nourish the body.

Creamy Broccoli Rice Bake

Indulge in the creamy goodness of the Creamy Broccoli Rice Bake, a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese with the wholesome benefits of broccoli. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this comforting bake features fluffy rice, tender broccoli, and a velvety cheese sauce. Easy to prepare and packed with vitamins, it's a guilt-free pleasure that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Discover how to make this hearty dish your new favorite!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup cream of mushroom soup (or homemade)

¾ cup milk

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon salt (to taste)

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

¼ cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked dish.

    Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a boil. Add the uncooked rice, stir, and reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

      Blanch the Broccoli: While the rice is cooking, bring a small pot of water to a boil. Add the fresh broccoli florets and blanch for about 2-3 minutes until bright green. Immediately transfer them to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

        Mix the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, blanched broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil. Pour the creamy rice and broccoli mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

            Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the remaining Parmesan cheese with breadcrumbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the rice bake.

              Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.

                Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. This will help the bake set up a bit. Serve warm as a main dish or a hearty side!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 55 min | Serves 6-8