Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole
Ingredients
6 cups fresh broccoli cut into bite sized pieces
2 cups cooked white rice
SAUCE
3 tablespoons butter
¾ cup onion diced (about 1 small)
3 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
¼ teaspoon each garlic & black pepper
½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
½ teaspoon paprika
salt to taste
3 tablespoons cream cheese
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided6 cups fresh broccoli cut into bite sized pieces
2 cups cooked white rice
This is the best broccoli rice casserole you will ever eat! The casserole can be adapted in a variety of ways and become as cheesy as you like. Inside, use either shredded cheddar, Cheez Whiz, or Velveeta. You can also top the casserole with as much cheese as you like and add breadcrumbs, pimentos, or garlic to make it even more interesting.
Instructions
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Cook onion and butter on medium-low heat until softened and translucent. Stir in flour, garlic powder and pepper. Cook an additional 2 minutes.
Gradually pour in milk while whisking. Continue whisking over medium heat until thick and bubbly. Remove from heat and add dry mustard, paprika, cream cheese and 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese. Stir until melted.
Place broccoli in boiling water for about 2 minutes. You still want it slightly crisp as it cooks more in the oven.
Stir together rice, broccoli and cheese sauce. Place in a greased 2 qt casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese and bake 35 minutes or until bubbly and cheese lightly browned.
Recipe and image courtesy of Broccoli Rice Casserole {Made from Scratch} - Spend With Pennies