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: 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Oven Inspiration

I absolutely love Sundays for the quality time spent with family over a comforting meal. This Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice is one of those dishes that brings everyone together at the dinner table. The creamy texture paired with the crunch of fresh broccoli creates a delightful experience. I enjoy making this dish because it's both simple to prepare and surprisingly elegant, making it perfect for both cozy family dinners and gatherings with friends. Each bite is a blend of flavors that reminds me of home, with cheesy goodness that everyone will adore.

Created by

Sybil Hawkes

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:21:34.358Z

Every Sunday, my family looks forward to the comforting flavors of baked dishes, and this Creamy Broccoli Rice has become a staple. I experimented with adding different cheeses, and found that a blend of sharp cheddar and parmesan gives it a delightful tang. The key is to lightly steam the broccoli before mixing it into the rice; this preserves its vibrant color and crisp texture, creating a dish that is both beautiful and tasty.

As we gathered around the table, the aroma filled the room, and the anticipation grew. What I love most is how this dish combines wholesome ingredients, turning broccoli – often viewed as a plain veggie – into the star of our meal. Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer, it transforms into a fulfilling delight that satisfies everyone.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, cheesy goodness with a flavorful crunch
A delightful way to get your daily serving of vegetables
Perfect for family gatherings or simple weeknight dinners

The Role of Cheeses

In this recipe, sharp cheddar and parmesan cheese provide a rich, savory depth that elevates the creamy texture of the baked broccoli rice. The sharpness of cheddar balances beautifully with the subtle nuttiness of parmesan, creating a harmonious flavor. Opting for fresh, high-quality cheeses ensures a luscious melt, resulting in that irresistible, gooey texture everyone craves. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider substituting the sharp cheddar with a mild white cheddar or gouda.

The cream cheese adds a velvety richness that coats each grain of rice and broccoli. Be sure to allow the cream cheese to soften to room temperature before mixing; this will help it blend more seamlessly into the mixture. If you’re looking for dairy-free alternatives, a vegan cream cheese or a cashew-based cream can provide a similar creamy effect without compromising the final dish's texture.

I recommend grating your cheeses yourself rather than using pre-shredded versions, as this yields better melting results. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the final dish. The extra minute spent grating cheese is worth it for that delightful, gooey experience!

Baking Techniques

When preparing to bake, ensure you grease your baking dish thoroughly; this prevents the cheesy goodness from sticking to the sides, allowing for easy serving and cleanup. A glass or ceramic dish is ideal to monitor the browning of the topping, but if you use a metal pan, reduce baking time slightly as it conducts heat more efficiently. Watch for the top turning golden brown, which typically happens around the 25-minute mark.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider mixing additional seasonings into the breadcrumb topping, like Italian herb blend or smoked paprika. This not only adds a delightful crunch but also enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can provide an exciting kick.

If you're short on time or want to prepare in advance, you can assemble the dish ahead of time. Keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're baking it straight from the refrigerator.

Ingredients

For the Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice

1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil

Combine these ingredients for a rich, comforting dish that everyone can enjoy!

Instructions

Prepare the Rice

In a medium saucepan, cook the rice according to package instructions, using vegetable broth instead of water for extra flavor.

Steam Broccoli

While the rice cooks, steam the broccoli florets for about 4-5 minutes until bright green and just tender. Set aside.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, milk, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well incorporated.

Prepare for Baking

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon or sautéed onions into the rice mixture.

Storing and Reheating

This creamy broccoli rice dish holds up well in the fridge, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container, where it can last for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Portion it into smaller containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to avoid uneven cooking.

When reheating, I suggest using the oven for the best texture—simply cover with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, stirring every minute for even heating. A splash of milk can help restore creaminess if it seems too thick after reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This baked creamy broccoli rice can serve as a stand-alone dish or a side to complement a variety of main courses. It's especially delicious alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish. The combination of flavors and textures pairs delightful well with savory proteins, making it a versatile companion for your meal plans.

For a complete vegetarian meal, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers to the mix before baking. This variation not only boosts the nutritional value but adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. Additionally, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving can brighten the dish and enhance its visual appeal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the mixture.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your rice is certified gluten-free.