One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

 

Ever craved a comforting, all-in-one meal? This One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is your answer! Silky textures meet cheesy goodness in this simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner. Inspired by hearty home-style cooking, this casserole is a delightful and effortless way to enjoy a balanced and flavorful meal. Let’s explore the magic of this one-pan wonder!

Why You’ll Love This Wild Rice and Broccoli Casserole

This One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll keep coming back for more:

• Effortless Cleanup: One pan means minimal dishes!
• Ready in Under an Hour: Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Cheesy Goodness: Irresistible cheddar melts into every bite.
• Nutritious and Balanced: A complete meal with grains, veggies, and protein.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, accessible ingredients.
• Customizable: Easy to adapt to your dietary needs and preferences.
• Aroma Fills the Kitchen: The warm, inviting scent will make everyone hungry.
• Simple Enough for Your First Try: A great recipe for beginners.

Ingredients Needed for Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delectable One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole. Quality ingredients ensure the best flavor and texture. Let’s gather everything you need!

• 1/2 cup wild rice, uncooked (approximately 100g)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (approximately 470ml)
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets (about 500g)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (approximately 15ml)
• 1 small onion, chopped (about 100g)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 6g)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (approximately 30g)
• 2 1/2 cups milk (approximately 590ml)
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (approximately 400g)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (approximately 1.5g)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (approximately 0.5g)
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs (approximately 25g)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted (approximately 30g)

For the best results, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese. Pick broccoli florets that are firm and bright green. Frozen broccoli also works well in a pinch.

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Essential Equipment List

Having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole with ease.

• 9×13 inch baking dish: For even baking and perfect portioning.
• Large skillet or Dutch oven: To cook the rice and create the creamy sauce.
• Small bowl: To mix the bread crumbs and melted butter.

A heavy pot is best for retaining heat evenly during cooking. No rolling pin? Use a sturdy bottle as a substitute.

Recipe Details

Get a quick overview of what to expect when making this delicious One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Difficulty: Medium

Scale up the recipe for a crowd or halve it for solo dining. Enjoy the process!

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole. Each step is designed for foolproof results. Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly.

Proper preparation is key to a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Cook the Wild Rice

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, combine the uncooked wild rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 45-50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Ensure the rice is fully cooked before moving on to the next step. This is the foundation of your casserole!

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli

While the rice is cooking, steam or microwave the broccoli florets until they are bright green and slightly tender, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside. This will help retain their vibrant color and texture in the casserole.

Avoid overcooking the broccoli to keep it crisp-tender.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the olive oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook over medium heat until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes. This builds a flavorful base for the creamy sauce.

Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Create the Roux

Add the flour to the rice mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce.

Cook the flour thoroughly to avoid a starchy taste.

Step 6: Make the Cheese Sauce

Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened, about 3-5 minutes. A smooth sauce is essential for a creamy casserole.

Whisk continuously to prevent lumps from forming.

Step 7: Melt in the Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. This is where the cheesy magic happens!

Use a wooden spoon or spatula to ensure all the cheese is fully melted.

Step 8: Fold in the Broccoli

Gently fold in the steamed broccoli florets. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the broccoli intact. This adds texture and flavor to the casserole.

Handle the broccoli gently to avoid breaking it apart.

Step 9: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. This ensures uniform baking and presentation.

Step 10: Prepare Bread Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole. This creates a golden, crunchy topping.

Use your fingers to distribute the bread crumbs evenly.

Step 11: Add Remaining Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the bread crumbs. This final layer of cheese adds extra flavor and a beautiful golden crust.

Step 12: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. The bubbling cheese is a sign of deliciousness!

Step 13: Rest and Serve

Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and the flavors to meld together. Enjoy your masterpiece!

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Tips for Success

Mastering this One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is easy with these expert tips. Follow these and achieve casserole perfection every time!

• Prevent a Burnt Base: Lower the oven heat slightly if you notice the bottom browning too quickly.
• Deglaze for Extra Depth: Add a splash of broth to the skillet after sautéing the onions to capture extra flavor.
• Pre-Measure Everything: Beginners should pre-measure ingredients for a smoother cooking process.
• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: It melts more evenly than pre-shredded cheese.
• Save Time with Pre-Chopped Veggies: If you’re short on time, use pre-chopped onions and broccoli.

Variations & Substitutions

Customize this One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole to suit your taste! Here are a few variations to try.

• Creamy Cashew Sauce: Use cashew cream for a dairy-free version.
• Honey for Sugar: Sweeten it naturally, but be aware it’s stickier.
• Add Cumin: For an earthy kick, incorporate a teaspoon of ground cumin.
• Gluten-Free: Use rice flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings with One Pan Wild Rice Casserole

Complete your meal with these perfect pairings for this One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole.

• Crisp Salad: A light vinaigrette salad balances the richness.
• Roasted Roots: Carrots or sweet potatoes add earthy sweetness.
• Mint Lemonade: Cuts through the richness with refreshing zest.

This casserole is a fall feast stunner! Stack slices high and drizzle sauce artfully for an impressive presentation.

Health Benefits of One Pan Wild Rice Bake

This One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole isn’t just delicious; it’s packed with nutrients! Here’s how it benefits your health.

• Wild Rice: Rich in fiber, aids digestion and helps you feel full.
• Broccoli: Provides essential vitamins C and K, boosting immunity and bone health.
• Cheddar Cheese: A good source of calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.

One serving rivals a multivitamin! Enjoy this wholesome and balanced meal.

Storage & Reheating Cheesy Wild Rice Casserole

Maximize the life of your One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole with these storage and reheating tips.

• Fridge Storage: Store in a glass container for up to 4 days.
• Oven Reheating: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes to retain the crispy topping.
• Freezing: Portion and wrap tightly; lasts 2 months in the freezer.

Cool the casserole fully before sealing to prevent spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about making this One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole? We’ve got answers!

How Do I Avoid Soggy Results?

Ensure the broccoli is only slightly tender, not mushy, before adding it to the casserole. This will prevent it from releasing too much moisture during baking.

Can I Double the Recipe?

Yes, but watch the cook time. It may need an additional 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

What if My Sauce is Too Thick?

Thin it with a little extra vegetable broth or milk until you reach the desired consistency.

Can I Use Different Cheeses?

Absolutely! Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or even a sharp provolone would be delicious additions or substitutions.

How Can I Make it Vegetarian

This recipe is already vegetarian! You can ensure that your cheese is vegetarian by checking the label for rennet.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick snapshot of the nutritional content in this One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole.

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 400mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 15g

Exact stats need a nutrition calculator. Carbs: 30g from wholesome grains.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

Craving more comforting and flavorful meals? Try these delightful recipes!

• The Best Broccoli Cheese Casserole – A classic comfort food elevated.
• Easy Cabbage Casserole – A simple and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
• Cheesy Chicken Rice Casserole – A hearty and flavorful meal that’s easy to make.

Conclusion

Fast, flavorful, and a crowd-pleaser, this One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a weeknight win. Whip it up tonight—tag us with your masterpiece!

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