Frederic Melton
Broccoli cheese rice casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that can be served as a side or main course. While there are many variations of the recipe, some common ingredients include butter, onion, rice, cheese, and of course, broccoli. The addition of eggs in the casserole is optional, but they can provide moisture and help hold the ingredients together. This versatile dish can be made with fresh or frozen broccoli and different types of cheese, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether you're serving it as a holiday side dish or a quick weeknight meal, broccoli cheese rice casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dish Type | Side dish |
| Ingredients | Broccoli, rice, cheese, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, butter, milk, onion, garlic, olive oil, breadcrumbs |
| Nutritional Information | Calories: 287, Carbohydrates: 23g, Protein: 13g, Fat: 17g, Saturated Fat: 10g, Trans Fat: 1g, Cholesterol: 50mg, Sodium: 280mg, Potassium: 384mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 5g, Vitamin A: 1090IU, Vitamin C: 62mg, Calcium: 325mg, Iron: 1mg |
| Variations | Add chicken, mushrooms, tortilla strips, sugar, or other vegetables |
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15-45 minutes |
| Storage | Can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Broccoli-cheese casseroles can include eggs
While eggs are not included in every broccoli-cheese casserole recipe, they can be a useful ingredient to add structure and moisture to the dish. The number of eggs used in a recipe can vary, with some recipes calling for just one egg, while others may use more.
Some people choose to omit the eggs from their broccoli-cheese casseroles. For example, one person shared that they did not include an egg in their casserole but instead thickened the sauce on the stove by letting it simmer. They also added chicken for a heartier dish.
Broccoli-cheese casseroles are versatile dishes that can be adapted to personal preferences and dietary needs. For a lighter version, one can use light cheese and low-fat milk. The type of cheese can also be varied according to taste or availability.
Broccoli-cheese casseroles are often made with a combination of broccoli, rice, and cheese sauce. The broccoli can be fresh or frozen, and it is usually cooked until tender before being added to the casserole. The rice is typically cooked separately and then combined with the other ingredients. The cheese sauce can be made from scratch or store-bought, and it is mixed with the broccoli and rice before being baked in the oven.
Shredded Cheese: Wood Pulp Mystery Solved
You may want to see also
Eggs add moisture and hold ingredients together
Broccoli cheese rice casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that can be served as a side or a main course. While the basic ingredients include broccoli, cheese, and rice, there are several variations to the recipe, with some including eggs.
Eggs play an essential role in the casserole by adding moisture and helping to bind the ingredients together. When mixed with other wet ingredients, such as mayonnaise or soup, eggs create a cohesive mixture that evenly coats the rice, broccoli, and cheese. This mixture not only ensures that the casserole holds together but also adds a subtle tanginess and richness to the dish.
The egg also contributes to the overall texture of the casserole. When baked, the egg mixture sets, providing a creamy and moist mouthfeel to the dish. It helps to bind the ingredients, preventing them from drying out or becoming crumbly. This is especially important when using ingredients like rice, which can tend to dry out during baking.
Additionally, eggs offer nutritional benefits to the casserole. They are a good source of protein and contain essential amino acids, contributing to a more well-rounded meal. This is particularly advantageous when serving the casserole as a main course or wanting to increase its nutritional value.
While eggs are not mandatory in a broccoli cheese rice casserole, they can enhance the dish's flavor, texture, and nutritional profile. They act as a binding agent, creating a cohesive and moist casserole that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So, if you're looking to elevate your casserole game, consider adding an egg to your recipe!
The Truth About Italians and Cheese on Bolognese
You may want to see also
Eggs can be omitted from the recipe
Broccoli cheese rice casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences and restrictions. While eggs are commonly used in this recipe, they can be omitted without compromising the overall taste and quality of the dish. Here are some tips and variations to consider when leaving out the eggs:
Adjusting for Moisture and Binding:
Eggs typically add moisture to casseroles and help bind the ingredients together. However, in the case of broccoli cheese rice casserole, the absence of eggs can be compensated for by using other ingredients that provide similar functionality. For instance, increasing the amount of cheese sauce or adding more cheese can help bind the ingredients and maintain a creamy texture. Using full-fat milk or sour cream can also enhance the creaminess and moisture content of the dish.
Alternative Binding Agents:
If you're concerned about the structural integrity of the casserole without eggs, there are alternative binding agents you can use. Cornstarch, arrowroot starch, or flour can be added to the cheese sauce to thicken it and provide additional binding. These starches and flours absorb liquid and help to hold the ingredients together, ensuring your casserole stays intact during slicing and serving.
Vegetable Purees:
Another creative way to replace eggs in this recipe is by using vegetable purees. Mashed potatoes, blended cooked cauliflower, or pureed pumpkin can act as binding agents and also contribute to a moist, tender texture. These vegetables have natural starches that mimic the binding properties of eggs, ensuring your casserole holds together nicely.
Emphasizing Other Ingredients:
When omitting eggs, you can emphasize other ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture of the casserole. For instance, adding sautéed mushrooms or onions can provide a savory boost, while using seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as a topping adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy interior.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options:
Leaving out the eggs in the broccoli cheese rice casserole makes it easier to adapt the recipe for vegetarian or vegan diets. You can explore plant-based alternatives, such as using vegan cheese, non-dairy milk, and vegan butter or margarine. By making these substitutions, you can create a delicious and satisfying casserole that aligns with specific dietary needs or preferences.
In conclusion, while eggs are commonly used in broccoli cheese rice casserole, they can certainly be omitted from the recipe. By adjusting the quantities of other ingredients, using alternative binding agents, or exploring vegetarian and vegan options, you can create a flavorful and satisfying dish that meets your desired dietary preferences or restrictions.
Guava Cheese Pastries: Fridge or No Fridge?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Other ingredients include broccoli, rice, cheese, and butter
Broccoli, rice, cheese, and butter are the main ingredients in a broccoli cheese rice casserole. Broccoli is a nutritious vegetable that belongs to the brassica oleracea family, which also includes cabbage, kale, and cauliflower. It is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre. Rice is a staple food and a good source of carbohydrates. It is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from savoury to sweet. Cheese is a dairy product made from milk that is rich in flavour and protein. Butter is also a dairy product made from milk that adds flavour and moisture to the dish.
Broccoli is a versatile vegetable that can be steamed, boiled, or stir-fried. For a broccoli cheese rice casserole, it is important to ensure that the broccoli is cooked but still slightly crisp, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Rice is also a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways. For this dish, it is important to use fluffy rice that is tender but not mushy.
Cheese is a key ingredient in this casserole, providing flavour and texture. Cheddar cheese is a popular choice, but other varieties such as Swiss, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack can also be used. The cheese is grated and melted into a sauce that binds the dish together. Butter is used to sauté the onions and add flavour to the casserole. It can also be combined with breadcrumbs and sprinkled on top of the casserole to create a crunchy, flavorful finish.
The broccoli, rice, cheese, and butter are combined and baked in a casserole dish. The dish is baked until it is golden brown and bubbling, creating a delicious and comforting meal. This casserole is a crowd-pleaser and can be served as a side dish or a complete meal. It is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings and can be customised with additional ingredients such as chicken, mushrooms, or spices to suit individual tastes and preferences.
Romano Cheese in Alfredo: Italian Style
You may want to see also
The casserole is baked until golden brown
To make a broccoli cheese rice casserole, you will need to preheat your oven to 350°F. You will also need to cook the rice and broccoli separately before combining them with the cheese sauce. The broccoli should be cooked until tender-crisp, while the rice should be cooked until tender.
Once the rice and broccoli are cooked, you can start preparing the cheese sauce. In a saucepan, melt butter and saute onions until they are softened and translucent. Next, stir in flour, garlic powder, and pepper, and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously. Keep whisking over medium heat until the mixture becomes thick and bubbly. Remove from heat and season with dry mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Finally, add the cream cheese and cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheeses are melted.
Now, you can combine the rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a large bowl. Make sure to stir well so that everything is evenly coated. Transfer this mixture to a greased casserole dish. At this point, you can add a topping of your choice. A common option is to combine melted butter, Panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle this over the casserole.
Finally, bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until it is golden brown and bubbling. For a crispy topping, you can also bake it for a little longer, around 30 to 45 minutes. However, the total baking time will depend on your desired level of browning and crispness. Once it's baked to your liking, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.
Beet-iful Vegan Cheese: A Tasty, Healthy Twist
You may want to see also
