Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice

Name: Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Highlighted under: Baked Meals

I absolutely love making this Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice as a comforting side dish for weekend family gatherings. It’s a delightful combination of tender broccoli and creamy rice, all baked to perfection. The great thing about this recipe is its versatility; you can customize it with your favorite cheeses or even add cooked chicken for extra protein. In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can assemble everything and let the oven do the work, making it perfect for those busy Sundays.

Created by

Odette Fairbanks

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:49:34.765Z

When I first created this dish, I was searching for a way to make broccoli more appealing to my family. By combining it with creamy rice and baking it until bubbly, I transformed a simple vegetable into a comforting, crave-worthy side. My kids couldn't get enough, and it quickly became a family favorite!

One of my best tips is to use leftover rice; it makes the preparation even quicker. I also recommend using a mix of cheeses for an extra layer of flavor. The melty cheese on top forms a golden crust that takes this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, cheesy goodness that complements any meal
A fantastic way to sneak in healthy vegetables for kids
Can be prepared ahead of time and easily reheated

Making the Most of Your Ingredients

Choosing the right rice is crucial for the perfect texture in this dish. While long-grain rice provides a fluffy result, I recommend using medium or short-grain rice for a creamier consistency that holds onto the sauce better. Additionally, if you're short on time, using leftover rice or pre-cooked rice saves you even more prep time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully in the oven.

When selecting broccoli, aim for florets that are bright green with firm stalks. Fresh broccoli not only enhances the dish’s visual appeal but also contributes a vibrant flavor that complements the creaminess of the cheeses. If fresh isn’t available, you can substitute frozen broccoli; just ensure it’s thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your bake.

Baking Techniques for Optimal Flavor

To achieve a beautifully browned top, do not rush the melting process of the butter over the rice mixture. It not only adds flavor but also aids in achieving that coveted crispy texture. If you’d like to intensify the flavor profile, consider mixing in a dash of smoked paprika or cayenne for a subtle kick, balancing the creamy notes with intriguing depth.

Monitoring the baking time is essential as ovens can vary significantly in temperature calibration. Start checking around the 25-minute mark; you’re looking for bubbling edges and a golden-brown top. If it hasn't browned after 30 minutes, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes—just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Ingredients

For the Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice

2 cups cooked rice
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix the ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli florets, cream of mushroom soup, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Transfer to baking dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it evenly using a spatula.

Drizzle with butter

Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the rice mixture to help it brown beautifully in the oven.

Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Serve

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy baked broccoli rice!

Pro Tips

Feel free to substitute other vegetables like cauliflower or carrots for a twist on flavor, or use leftover vegetables from previous meals for a more rustic approach. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or fish.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice can shine as a side dish or stand alone as a vegetarian main course. I love serving it alongside roasted meats, as the creaminess complements savory flavors beautifully. For a more complete meal, consider adding a protein like shredded chicken or cooked sausage directly into the mix before baking, boosting both flavor and nourishment.

To elevate the dish further, top with additional cheese or breadcrumbs mixed with herbs like parsley or thyme before baking. This will create an irresistible crust with a crunch that beautifully contrasts the creamy interior. Pair the dish with a light salad on the side to balance the richness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool entirely before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will keep well for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked rice in individual portions; just ensure it’s completely cooled to prevent ice crystals. It will be best if consumed within three months.

To reheat, you can microwave individual portions until hot throughout. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, or bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-30 minutes, covered with foil to help retain moisture and prevent drying out.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before mixing it with the other ingredients.

→ Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Yes! Use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup and substitute the cheeses with vegan cheese alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.