Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice

Name: Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I love making Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice as it brings the whole family together around the dinner table. This dish is a delightful combination of tender broccoli and creamy rice, baked to perfection. It's not only comforting but also packed with nutrients, making it a great option for a family meal. We often enjoy it alongside grilled chicken or as a main vegetarian dish. The best part? The leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any left!

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-14T05:05:35.114Z

When I first tried making a creamy broccoli rice bake, I wasn't quite sure how the flavors would blend. However, the combination of fresh broccoli with a mix of cheeses created a rich and comforting dish that quickly became a family favorite. I learned that slowly cooking the broccoli enhances its flavor and keeps it tender without turning mushy.

The secret to achieving that perfect creaminess is to use a combination of heavy cream and chicken broth, which I discovered during a cooking experiment. Not only does it add flavor, but it also helps the rice cook beautifully and soak up all those lovely spices!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture bursting with flavor
Perfectly tender broccoli in every bite
A comforting dish that's easy to prepare
Great for meal prep and leftovers

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Texture

To ensure the rice achieves a fluffy texture, it's essential to rinse it under cold water before cooking. This removes excess starch, which can make the rice gummy. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes with the lid on to allow the steam to finish the cooking process. Fluffing the rice with a fork before mixing it with other ingredients helps maintain its lightness, preventing it from becoming dense in the final bake.

When steaming the broccoli, be cautious not to overcook it. The goal is to achieve a vibrant green color and maintain some crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy rice mixture. If you don’t have a steamer, a microwave works well too. Just add a splash of water to a bowl, cover it with a lid or plate, and heat for 2-3 minutes. Check for doneness and adjust as necessary.

Ingredient Insights

Using heavy cream is crucial for achieving that rich, creamy texture that defines this dish. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using half-and-half or a combination of yogurt and milk, but keep in mind that this will alter the final creaminess. Shredded cheese, especially cheddar, not only adds flavor but also helps bind the bake together. For a unique twist, try adding crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy kick.

Broccoli plays a significant role in this recipe not just for its nutrition but also for its ability to absorb flavors from the creamy mixture. If fresh broccoli isn't available, frozen florets can be used as a substitute; just ensure they are thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture in the dish. You can also experiment with other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower for variation.

Ingredients

For the Bake

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and prepare for baking.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a baking dish with olive oil.

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, combine the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender.

Prepare the Broccoli

While the rice cooks, steam the broccoli florets for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and tender.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, heavy cream, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and bake for 30 minutes until golden and bubbly on top.

Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious creamy broccoli rice!

Serve warm as a delightful side dish or main course.

Pro Tips

To make this dish even creamier, add a touch more heavy cream before baking. For a vegan option, substitute dairy products with coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy broccoli rice dish refrigerates well, making it perfect for meal prep. Once baked, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; portion the leftover batches in freezer-safe containers, where it can last up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.

If making ahead of time, you can prepare the mixture up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight before baking. This allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste. Just be sure to give it a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s baked straight from the fridge.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this dish with protein-rich sides can enhance its nutritional profile. Grilled chicken pairs beautifully, with its charred edges adding a nice contrast to the creamy texture of the rice. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, which add brightness and crunch.

Another great way to enjoy this creamy broccoli rice is by transforming it into a filling for stuffed peppers or zucchini boats. Simply scoop the mixture into halved peppers or zucchinis and bake until the vegetables are tender. This variation not only looks stunning but also amps up the veggie content without losing any of that beloved creaminess.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw and drain it before adding to the mixture.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy broccoli rice pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh garden salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and bake it just before serving.