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In the realm of home cooking, few dishes evoke the same sense of comfort as a warm, cheesy casserole. Among these delightful meals, the One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole stands out as a perfect blend of ease, flavor, and nourishment. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also warms the heart, making it an ideal choice for busy families and individuals looking for a quick yet comforting meal option.

One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole. Perfect for busy families, this easy recipe combines nutritious broccoli, hearty rice, and creamy cheese in a simple one-pan dish that makes cleanup a breeze. Ideal for various dietary preferences, it's customizable to suit your tastes. Enjoy the warm, inviting flavors that make this casserole a favorite for both kids and adults, bringing joy to your family dinners or gatherings.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

2 cups vegetable or chicken broth

2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or 2 cups frozen broccoli, thawed and drained)

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

1 cup milk (or your choice of plant-based milk)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

    Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the uncooked white rice along with the vegetable or chicken broth. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

      Incorporate the Broccoli: Once the broth reaches a boil, add the broccoli florets to the skillet, distributing them evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed. For frozen broccoli, ensure it's completely thawed and well-drained to prevent excess moisture.

        Stir in the Creaminess: After the rice has cooked, remove the lid and add the milk and shredded cheddar cheese (as well as the dried thyme, if using). Stir everything together until the cheese melts into a creamy consistency.

          Add Toppings: Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan over the top of the mixture. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust when baked.

            Bake for Extra Creaminess (Optional): For a crispy, golden top, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

              Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes. Prior to serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

                Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4-6

                  Presentation Tips: Serve directly from the skillet for a rustic feel, or spoon individual portions into bowls, garnishing with extra parsley and a sprinkle of paprika for added visual appeal. Enjoy your delightful, cheesy creation!