Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a homemade cheese sauce that’s rich, creamy, and loaded with cheddar. Baked until bubbly and golden, this easy casserole is perfect as a hearty side or a meatless main.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, prepping ahead, or just craving something cozy, this dish delivers warm, cheesy goodness in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Recipe

• Comforting, cozy flavors
  It’s cheesy, creamy, and familiar—exactly what you want from a baked casserole.
• Family-friendly favorite
  Even picky eaters love the cheesy rice and hidden veggies.
• Great for meal prep or leftovers
  Make it ahead, reheat it later—it’s just as good the next day.
• Simple ingredients, big flavor
  Basic pantry staples transform into something irresistible.

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Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole Ingredients

• 6 cups fresh broccoli, cut into bite-sized florets
• 2 cups cooked white rice

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• ¾ cup diced onion (about 1 small onion)
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups milk
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• 3 tablespoons cream cheese
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

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How to Make Pioneer Woman Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

1. Bake uncovered for 35 minutes, or until hot and golden on top. Let cool slightly before serving.
2. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
3. Make the sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in flour, garlic powder, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring.
4. Add milk: Gradually whisk in milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens and bubbles.
5. Melt in cheese: Remove from heat. Stir in dry mustard, paprika, cream cheese, and 1½ cups of cheddar. Mix until smooth. Taste and season with salt as needed.
6. Blanch broccoli: Boil broccoli for about 2 minutes until bright green and slightly crisp. Drain immediately.
7. Combine and bake: In a large bowl, mix cooked rice, blanched broccoli, and cheese sauce. Pour into prepared casserole dish. Top with remaining ½ cup cheddar.

Expert Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook the broccoli before baking—it finishes in the oven.
• Whisk gradually when adding milk to avoid lumpy sauce.
• Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor, or blend cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
• Add protein like shredded chicken or ham to turn it into a full meal.

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Recipe Variations

• Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole: Add 1–2 cups shredded cooked chicken for a complete meal.
• Bacon Cheddar Version: Stir in crispy bacon and use extra cheddar on top.
• Tex-Mex Twist: Add green chiles, corn, and pepper jack cheese.
• Cauliflower Swap: Replace half of the broccoli with cauliflower for variety.
• Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before baking.

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Storage Instructions

• In the Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• In the Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze up to 3 months.

How to Reheat Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

• Oven: Cover and reheat at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk.
• Air Fryer: Heat leftovers at 350°F for 3–5 minutes for a crisp top.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
  Yes! Just thaw and drain it well before using.
• How do I prevent the cheese sauce from getting lumpy?
  Whisk constantly while slowly adding milk to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Can I swap in a different cheese?
  Absolutely. Try mozzarella, Gruyere, or Swiss for a flavor twist.
• How do I make this casserole spicy?
  Add a pinch of cayenne, red pepper flakes, or chopped jalapeños to the sauce or topping.
• Can I prep this casserole in advance?
  Yes! Assemble everything up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

More Pioneer Woman  Recipe:

• Pioneer Woman Ham Balls
• Pioneer Woman Cheesy Refried Bean Casserole
• Pioneer Woman Thai Beef With Peppers

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 287 
• Carbohydrates: 23g 
• Protein: 13g 
• Fat: 17g 
• Saturated Fat: 10g 
• Trans Fat: 1g 
• Cholesterol: 50mg 
• Sodium: 280mg 
• Potassium: 384mg 
• Fiber: 2g 
• Sugar: 5g 
• Calcium: 325mg 
• Iron: 1mg