Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice

Name: Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Classic Meals

I absolutely love making Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice for a cozy family gathering. This dish brings together the comforting flavors of creamy rice and fresh broccoli, making it a perfect side or main course. The luscious creaminess paired with a crispy topping creates a delightful contrast that everyone enjoys. I often prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven just before serving, allowing me to fully engage with my guests. It's a dish that's simple yet impressive, and it always earns rave reviews from family and friends.

Created by

Xenia Radcliffe

Last updated on 2026-01-14T01:41:38.323Z

When I first created this dish, I wanted to impress my family with something unique yet comforting. I found that the combination of creamy textures and fresh ingredients made a world of difference in the final result. The balance of cheesy goodness with the crunch of the breadcrumbs adds an appealing texture that elevates the meal.

One specific tip I discovered is to lightly steam the broccoli beforehand, ensuring it retains that vibrant green color and a slight crunch. Not only does it enhance the visual appeal, but it also prevents the broccoli from becoming mushy during baking.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy flavor that satisfies every palate
Perfectly balanced with fresh broccoli for a nourishing touch
Easy to prepare ahead of time, perfect for busy weekends

      

Choosing the Right Rice

For the best texture in your Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice, opt for medium or long-grain rice, such as jasmine or basmati. These varieties hold their shape well during baking and won't turn mushy. Short-grain rice tends to be stickier, which might result in a denser dish. You can use leftover rice or even frozen rice, which saves time on busy weekends. Just be sure the rice is fully cooked before mixing with the other ingredients.

If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes to achieve that desired crunch on top. This ensures everyone can enjoy the dish, regardless of dietary restrictions. Additionally, if you prefer a heartier grain, consider swapping half the rice for quinoa or farro for added nutrition and flavor.

Elevating the Flavors

To enhance the dish's flavor profile, consider adding sautéed onions or shallots to the mixture. Sauté them in a bit of olive oil or butter until they are translucent before adding them to the main ingredient bowl. This step adds an aromatic depth that complements the creaminess of the cheeses beautifully. I often recommend incorporating a pinch of nutmeg as well, which contrasts nicely with the richness of the cream cheese and cheddar.

Herbs like thyme or fresh parsley can elevate the dish beyond its comfort food roots. Adding about a tablespoon of fresh thyme or a handful of chopped parsley not only introduces a fresh aroma but also adds a pop of color. These herbs work well with broccoli, making the dish visually appealing while also enhancing the overall flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you want to make this dish in advance, prepare it as instructed but before the baking step. Cover the mixed, unbaked dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, remove the cover and add about 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time, monitoring for that lovely golden-brown topping.

For longer storage, consider freezing the unbaked mixture. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and you can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed. This not only saves time but also lets you whip up a comforting meal with minimal effort when needed.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a creamy and delicious broccoli rice casserole.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup milk
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to ensure a perfectly baked creamy broccoli rice dish.

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and a perfectly crispy topping.

Prepare the Broccoli

Steam the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until tender but still vibrant green. Drain and set aside.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.

Add Broccoli

Gently fold in the steamed broccoli, ensuring it's evenly distributed throughout the rice mixture.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top for a lovely crunch.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious, creamy broccoli rice dish!

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or a fresh salad.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a unique twist.

Perfect Pairings

This creamy broccoli rice dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or baked fish. The light texture and flavors of proteins complement the richness of the rice, creating a well-rounded meal. For a vegetarian option, serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp salad to balance the creaminess with freshness.

For a fun twist, you can incorporate proteins like diced ham or cooked chicken into the rice mixture. Just be sure to cut them into small pieces to ensure even distribution. This turn of flavor creates a more filling option that can easily serve as a main dish for a family gathering.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your baked creamy broccoli rice comes out too dry, it might be a sign that it was baked for too long or that your rice was too dry before mixing. To remedy this, you can mix in a splash of milk before baking to add moisture. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.

Conversely, if it appears too watery after baking, ensure you measured the liquid ingredients correctly. Occasionally, excess water can come from the broccoli when steaming, so be sure to drain it well and blot with a paper towel to remove extra moisture before mixing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed gluten-free crackers or omit them entirely.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake it.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy broccoli rice goes great with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even on its own as a satisfying vegetarian meal.