Cheddar Broccoli and Wild Rice Casserole

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

This Cheddar Broccoli and Wild Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the nutty flavor of wild rice, the freshness of broccoli, and the creamy goodness of a homemade cheese sauce. It's perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering, bringing warmth and flavor to the table.

Ingredients for Cheddar Broccoli and Wild Rice Casserole

Wild rice is the heart of the dish, offering a nutty texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Fresh broccoli florets add a vibrant color and a healthy dose of greens, perfectly complementing the rich flavors. Butter serves as the base for the roux, giving the sauce a rich, buttery taste. A small onion and garlic enhance the depth of flavor, while all-purpose flour helps thicken the sauce. Milk creates a creamy consistency, and sharp cheddar cheese infuses the casserole with a bold, cheesy flavor. Seasoned with salt, black pepper, and paprika, the dish is finished with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for added texture.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use leftover rice to save time, if you have any on hand.
  • Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese.
  • For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside roasted chicken or grilled fish for a heartier option. Don't forget a glass of white wine or sparkling water to complement the rich flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
Is there a non-dairy option?
You can substitute the milk and cheese with non-dairy alternatives like almond milk and vegan cheese.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Cheddar Broccoli and Wild Rice Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This sets the stage for a perfectly baked casserole. While the oven warms up, grab a medium saucepan and bring the wild rice and water to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender. This is a good time to prepare your other ingredients.

While the rice cooks, steam the broccoli florets until they're just tender. You want them to retain a bit of crunch, so they hold up well in the casserole. Set the broccoli aside once it's done.

Next, in a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion turns translucent. This typically takes a few minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for about a minute, creating the base for your sauce.

Gradually whisk in the milk, and continue to cook the mixture until it thickens. Once it reaches a creamy consistency, remove it from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce. Make sure everything is evenly mixed for a uniform taste. Transfer this mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, and sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly on top.

Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving. This will help it set and make serving easier.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Combines wholesome ingredients into a satisfying meal.
  • Easy to prepare with simple steps and minimal fuss.
  • A great way to incorporate veggies in a delicious way.
  • Perfect for make-ahead meals and leftovers.

Ingredients

1 cup wild rice
2 cups water
1 lb fresh broccoli florets
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the wild rice and water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
3. Meanwhile, steam the broccoli florets until just tender and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce.
8. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly on top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!