Introduction

Welcome to your new favorite family dinner! This Family-Friendly Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a comforting one-pan meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. Bursting with the goodness of vibrant broccoli and oozing with cheesy goodness, this dish brings a delightful combination of flavors and textures that the whole family will love.

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Perfectly creamy, with a crunchy topping that adds just the right amount of contrast, this casserole not only satisfies picky eaters but also offers a nutritious punch with fresh veggies. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty side dish for a family gathering, this skillet casserole is versatile enough to meet any occasion. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, meaning less cleanup for you while maximizing flavor and enjoyment for everyone at the table! Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

2 cups broccoli florets (either fresh or frozen)
1 cup pre-cooked rice (white or brown)
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 cup crushed buttery crackers (for the topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C).
1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a spacious skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Incorporate the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute until aromatic.
1. Blanch the Broccoli: For fresh broccoli, boil a pot of water. Introduce the broccoli florets and blanch for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and remain crisp. Drain and place aside.
1. Combine Ingredients: In the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic, add the cooked rice, blanched broccoli, grated cheddar cheese, milk, sour cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until everything is thoroughly integrated and the cheese begins to melt.
1. Prepare for Baking: Evenly distribute the mixture in the skillet or move it to a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
1. Add the Topping: Evenly distribute the crushed buttery crackers over the surface of the casserole mixture, providing a delightful crunch.
1. Bake: Insert the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until it is bubbly and the top has a golden color.
1. Serve Up: After removing it from the oven, allow it to cool for several minutes before serving. Savor the cheesy deliciousness with your family!
Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 45 min | Servings: 6

Key Ingredients

Broccoli Florets – Fresh or frozen broccoli adds a nutritious element and vibrant color.
Cooked Rice – White or brown rice serves as the base, providing texture and heartiness.
Shredded Cheese – A blend of cheddar and mozzarella creates a creamy, melty topping.
Cream of Mushroom Soup – This provides a rich, savory flavor and creamy consistency.
Milk – Used to thin out the soup and create a velvety texture in the casserole.
Onion – Chopped onion adds a layer of flavor and sweetness when sautéed.
Garlic Powder – For an extra kick of flavor without the hassle of fresh garlic prep.
Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Breadcrumbs – Optional, for a crunchy topping that adds texture and contrast to the creamy casserole.
Olive Oil or Butter – For sautéing the onions and adding richness to the dish.

Feel free to adjust the ingredients to cater to your family’s preferences or dietary needs!

Baking Process

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly.
Prepare the Skillet: In a large, oven-safe skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Broccoli: Stir in the fresh or frozen broccoli florets. If using frozen, cook until they are heated through and tender, about 5-7 minutes. If using fresh broccoli, you may want to steam it slightly beforehand for better tenderness.
Make the Cheese Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the broccoli and onion mixture. Stir continuously for about a minute to coat the vegetables. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble, about 4-5 minutes.
Incorporate Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and mix in 2 cups of shredded cheese (cheddar is a favorite, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or a cheese blend!). Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
Stir in Rice: Add in 2 cups of cooked rice, mixing well to coat it in the cheesy sauce. Make sure that all ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the skillet.
Top with Extra Cheese: Sprinkle an additional cup of cheese on top of the mixture for that extra cheesy goodness.
Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly. If you want an extra crispy top, you can broil it for the last few minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven (careful – it will be hot!). Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
Enjoy: Scoop out generous portions for your family and enjoy this hearty, cheesy, and nutritious meal that everyone will love!

Serving Suggestions

This Family-Friendly Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Protein Pairing: Serve the casserole alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, or sautéed shrimp for a wholesome, balanced meal. The creamy texture of the casserole complements the flavors of protein dishes perfectly.
Fresh Salad: A light, refreshing side salad can brighten up your plate. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese.
Garlic Bread: For a comforting touch, serve with slices of crispy garlic bread or toasted baguette. The crunchy texture and garlicky flavor will be a hit among family and friends.
Quinoa or Rice: Offer a bed of fluffy quinoa or brown rice. This not only adds a nutty flavor but also provides a nutritious grain option that complements the casserole well.
Roasted Vegetables: Add some variety to the table with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. The caramelization enhances the natural sweetness and offers a colorful presentation.
Herb Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the casserole just before serving can add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Dips and Sauces: Consider serving with a side of ranch dressing or a tangy yogurt sauce for drizzling on top. It adds an extra layer of flavor that kids are sure to enjoy.
Fruit Compote: For a sweet contrast, a small dish of fruit compote or apple sauce can be a delightful addition, balancing the savory flavors of the casserole.

These suggestions not only enhance the dining experience but also encourage everyone at the table to try different flavors and textures, making your Family-Friendly Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Casserole the star of the meal!

Conclusion

This Family-Friendly Skillet Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and nutritious broccoli, it satisfies even the pickiest eaters while packing a wholesome punch. The one-skillet approach not only simplifies cleanup but also keeps all the flavors melded beautifully together, making each bite more delicious than the last.

Feel free to customize the recipe by adding in your favorite proteins or swapping out vegetables to suit your family’s tastes. This dish is versatile and forgiving, allowing for plenty of creativity in the kitchen. Whether you’re serving it as a comforting side or a hearty main, this casserole is a delightful way to bring the family together over a satisfying meal. Give it a try, and watch how quickly it disappears from the table! Happy cooking!