Savor the wholesome goodness of this Cheesy Rice and Vegetable Casserole with Broccoli—a delightful dish that combines fluffy rice, vibrant vegetables, and gooey cheese in every comforting bite. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, this casserole is both delicious and nutritious, offering a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into creating this flavorful masterpiece that will leave you craving seconds!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 4 eggs
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tomatoes, sliced
- Cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish with olive oil and set aside.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions until fluffy and tender. Once cooked, transfer the rice to a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- In a pot of boiling water, blanch the broccoli florets for 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Add the blanched broccoli florets to the bowl with the cooked rice.
- In a skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the bowl with the rice and broccoli. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the beaten eggs over the rice and vegetable mixture in the bowl. Stir to evenly distribute the eggs throughout the mixture.
- Transfer the rice and vegetable mixture to the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Arrange the sliced tomatoes over the top of the rice and vegetable mixture in the baking dish.
- Grate cheese of your choice over the top of the casserole, covering it evenly.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the aluminum foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and slightly crispy on top.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Cheesy Rice and Vegetable Casserole with Broccoli hot, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this wholesome dish!
Conclusion: With its fluffy rice, tender broccoli, and melty cheese, this Cheesy Rice and Vegetable Casserole is a deliciously satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a hearty side dish, it’s a wholesome and flavorful option that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the comforting goodness of this delightful casserole!