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One-Pot Creamy Cheddar Broccoli Rice Casserole

Close-up of a steaming bowl of creamy, cheesy broccoli rice topped with bright green broccoli florets.

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This easy, one-pot broccoli rice casserole delivers rich, cheesy comfort food entirely on the stovetop. It is a quick, family-friendly meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried mustard powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 4 ounces Velveeta or similar processed cheese, cubed
  • 1/2 cup milk

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, water, salt, pepper, mustard powder, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  5. After 15 minutes, remove the skillet from the heat. Gently stir in the broccoli florets. Cover the skillet again and let it stand for 5 minutes to steam the broccoli.
  6. Remove the lid. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cubed Velveeta, and milk until the cheeses are fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
  7. Serve the creamy broccoli rice casserole immediately as a satisfying family dinner or side dish.

Notes

  • For a crispier top, you can transfer the finished stovetop mixture to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes after melting the cheese.
  • If you do not have Velveeta, substitute with an additional 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese and 1 tablespoon of cream cheese for creaminess.
  • This recipe works well with pre-cooked rice if you are short on time; reduce the simmering time to 5 minutes after adding the broth.

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