The Ultimate Easy Crockpot Broccoli Rice Casserole: Your New Go-To Cheesy Side Dish
Prepare to fall in love with this incredibly easy and utterly delicious Crockpot broccoli rice casserole. This isn’t just another side dish; it’s a creamy, cheesy, and comforting staple that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients like frozen chopped broccoli, instant rice, sweet onion, rich Velveeta, and sharp cheddar, it truly is a “dump-and-go” slow cooker recipe that demands very little of your time but delivers huge on flavor.
Imagine a bubbling hot casserole, rich with a velvety cheese sauce, tender broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked rice, all coming together with minimal effort. That’s exactly what you get with this Crockpot broccoli rice casserole. Just a quick dice of an onion, a few cubes of Velveeta for effortlessly smooth melting, and a mix of all the ingredients in your slow cooker. A final sprinkle of shredded cheese to melt before serving, and you’re ready to impress. It’s the ultimate comfort food that your entire family, even the picky eaters, will adore.
The secret to this casserole’s consistent texture and widespread appeal, especially among those who shy away from larger vegetable pieces, lies in the choice of frozen chopped broccoli. Unlike larger florets or broccoli cuts, chopped broccoli comes pre-cut into very small, uniform pieces. This ensures the broccoli cooks evenly throughout the casserole and integrates seamlessly into the creamy rice, making it virtually irresistible for kids and adults alike.
Beyond being a perfect, fuss-free side dish for everyday cooking, this Crockpot broccoli rice casserole also shines as a holiday classic. Its ability to feed a crowd and its comforting nature make it an ideal addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner spread, freeing up valuable oven space. If you’re looking for more holiday side inspiration, be sure to explore other crowd-pleasing recipes like classic green bean casserole or a vibrant green chile corn casserole.
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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Crockpot Broccoli Rice Casserole
- Effortlessly Easy Recipe: This is the epitome of a “dump-and-go” Crockpot recipe. With minimal hands-on prep time – just dicing an onion and cubing some Velveeta – you can have this comforting dish cooking while you focus on other tasks. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a reliable side for a special occasion. Plus, the relatively quick cooking time for a slow cooker means you won’t be waiting all day!
- Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: Whether you’re hosting a large family dinner, bringing a dish to a potluck, or preparing for a holiday feast like Thanksgiving or Christmas, this recipe has you covered. It generously yields 10 to 12 servings, ensuring there’s enough creamy, cheesy goodness for everyone. Its ease of preparation and large yield make it an ideal choice for stress-free entertaining.
- A Guaranteed Family Dinner Favorite: This cheesy broccoli casserole is the definition of comfort food. Its rich, creamy texture and mild, familiar flavors appeal to almost everyone, making it a surefire hit at any family gathering. Even those who are typically hesitant about eating vegetables will find themselves reaching for seconds of this delicious and cheesy creation. It’s an excellent way to get some greens into your diet in a most delightful way!
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Essential Ingredients for Your Crockpot Broccoli Rice Casserole
Creating this irresistible broccoli rice casserole starts with a selection of readily available ingredients, each playing a crucial role in developing its signature creamy and cheesy flavor profile. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why these components are key:
- Frozen Chopped Broccoli: This is the cornerstone of our casserole. Look for packages specifically labeled “chopped broccoli” in the frozen food aisle. These pieces are significantly smaller and more uniform than standard broccoli florets or cuts, ensuring they cook through perfectly in the slow cooker and blend seamlessly into the creamy rice. This fine chop is also excellent for families with picky eaters who might object to larger chunks of vegetables. No need to thaw beforehand, just add it straight from the freezer.
- Instant Rice: A true time-saver! Instant rice, such as Minute Rice, is specifically designed to cook much faster than traditional long-grain white or brown rice. This quick-cooking property makes it ideal for slow cooker recipes like this one, as it absorbs the flavorful liquid and becomes tender without requiring any pre-cooking. Simply add it uncooked, and your Crockpot will handle the rest!
- Sweet Onion: Diced finely, a sweet onion adds a subtle depth of flavor and a touch of delicate sweetness that beautifully complements the savory cheese and broccoli. It also provides a slight textural contrast, enhancing each bite without being overpowering.
- Velveeta: The “secret weapon” for ultimate creaminess! This shelf-stable Velveeta cheese comes in blocks and is renowned for its exceptional melting properties. Cubing the Velveeta before adding it to the slow cooker ensures it melts more evenly and quickly, creating that perfectly smooth, rich, and undeniably cheesy sauce that makes this casserole so addictive.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: This condensed soup serves as a foundational element for the creamy sauce, adding savory umami notes and a thick, luxurious consistency.
- Cream of Celery Soup: Partnering with the cream of mushroom soup, condensed cream of celery soup further enhances the rich, velvety texture and introduces a subtle, earthy flavor that rounds out the casserole’s profile.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: This liquid base not only helps cook the rice but also infuses the entire dish with a savory chicken flavor without adding excessive salt. You can adjust the sodium level to your preference with regular broth or water.
- Whole Milk: Contributes significantly to the overall richness and creamy texture of the casserole, balancing the savory notes of the soups and broth.
- Unsalted Butter: Sliced and dispersed throughout, unsalted butter melts slowly, enhancing the rice and the entire casserole with a luscious, buttery flavor that adds to its comfort food appeal.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Reserved for topping, shredded sharp cheddar cheese provides an extra layer of cheesy goodness and forms a delightful, bubbly crust as it melts. Sharp cheddar offers a more pronounced cheese flavor compared to mild varieties, elevating the casserole’s taste.
Please refer to the recipe card below for the exact quantities of each ingredient.
Simple Steps to Your Perfect Crockpot Broccoli Rice Casserole
One of the best features of this Crockpot broccoli rice casserole is its straightforward preparation. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be well on your way to a warm, comforting, and cheesy meal. Follow these instructions for a perfect result every time:
Step 1: Combine Ingredients. Begin by adding all of the casserole’s ingredients, *except* for the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, directly into the Crockpot. This includes the frozen chopped broccoli, instant rice, diced sweet onion, cubed Velveeta, cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, low-sodium chicken broth, whole milk, and sliced unsalted butter. Ensure your Crockpot is ready for action!
Step 2: Stir and Cook. Once all the initial ingredients are in, give them a good stir to ensure everything is well combined and the Velveeta cubes are somewhat distributed. Place the lid securely on your slow cooker. Cook the casserole on HIGH for 2 hours or on LOW for 4 hours. Remember to stir the mixture occasionally (every hour or so) during the cooking process to prevent the rice from sticking to the sides and to ensure even cooking and melting of the Velveeta.
Step 3: Add Final Cheese. After the main cooking time is complete and the rice is tender, give the casserole one last stir to ensure everything is creamy and well-mixed. Then, evenly sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This layer of cheese will melt into a glorious, gooey topping.
Step 4: Melt and Serve. Replace the lid on the slow cooker. If your Crockpot has a “WARM” setting, set it to WARM for approximately 10 minutes. Alternatively, leave it on LOW for about 5-7 minutes. The goal is simply to melt the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s gooey and bubbly. Once melted, your cheesy Crockpot broccoli rice casserole is ready to be scooped and enjoyed!
Top Tips for the Best Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Achieving a perfectly creamy and delicious Crockpot broccoli rice casserole is easy with these helpful tips:
- Embrace Easy Cleanup with Crockpot Liners: To make your cooking experience truly effortless from start to finish, consider using disposable Crockpot liners. These handy bags prevent food from sticking to the stoneware, turning a scrubbing chore into a simple toss-and-go.
- Don’t Forget to Stir: While slow cookers are known for their hands-off nature, occasional stirring is key for this casserole. Stirring every hour or so, especially when cooking on HIGH, prevents the instant rice from clumping or sticking to the bottom and sides of the crock. It also ensures the Velveeta melts evenly into a smooth, consistent cheese sauce.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before adding the final shredded cheddar, taste the casserole and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on your chicken broth and condensed soups, you might want to add a pinch of salt, some black pepper, or a dash of garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Avoid Overcooking the Rice: Instant rice cooks quickly. While the times provided are accurate, keep an eye on it towards the end of the cooking cycle. Overcooked rice can become mushy, so once it’s tender, proceed to the final cheese-melting step.
- For a Crispy Topping (Optional): If you prefer a slightly crispy, golden cheese topping, you can carefully transfer the cooked casserole to an oven-safe dish (if your Crockpot insert isn’t oven-safe). Sprinkle with cheese, and broil for 2-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning, until bubbly and lightly browned.
Smart Substitutions for Your Broccoli Rice Casserole
This Crockpot broccoli rice casserole recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing for various substitutions to fit your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas to customize your dish:
- Frozen Chopped Broccoli: While chopped frozen broccoli is recommended for its convenience and ideal texture, you have alternatives. You can purchase frozen florets or larger broccoli cuts and chop them into smaller pieces yourself. If you opt not to chop them, consider thawing them first to ensure even cooking. Fresh broccoli can also be used; simply chop it into small, uniform pieces. You might need to add an additional 15-30 minutes to the cooking time and check for fork-tenderness before adding the final cheese layer. Steaming fresh broccoli briefly before adding to the Crockpot can also help ensure it’s tender.
- Instant Rice: It is crucial to use *instant rice* for this recipe, as its rapid cooking properties are essential for slow cooker preparation. Regular long-grain white rice or brown rice cannot be substituted directly as they require different cooking times and liquid ratios. However, you can use Minute Rice Brown Rice, but be aware that brown instant rice typically takes a bit longer to cook, so plan accordingly.
- Sweet Onion: If a sweet onion isn’t available, a yellow or white onion will work fine, though the flavor will be slightly sharper. For those who prefer no onion chunks, you can omit it entirely or use a teaspoon of onion powder (and a ½ teaspoon of garlic powder) to add flavor. Shallots could also offer a delicate alternative.
- Velveeta: This recipe was specifically developed with Velveeta original for its superior melting qualities and classic flavor. However, you can experiment with other Velveeta varieties like Velveeta Queso Blanco, 2% milk, or Mexican for a slightly different cheesy profile.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup and Cream of Celery Soup: Feel free to customize the flavor base with your favorite condensed soups. Excellent substitutions include cream of chicken soup (for a more savory chicken flavor) or cream of onion soup. For an extra cheesy and broccoli-centric flavor, a can of condensed broccoli cheese soup would also be a fantastic option. Using just one type of soup (e.g., two cans of cream of mushroom) is also perfectly acceptable.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: To further reduce the sodium content, you can substitute water for the chicken broth. Conversely, if you prefer a saltier dish, regular chicken broth can be used. For a vegetarian option, simply swap chicken broth for vegetable broth.
- Whole Milk: Whole milk contributes significantly to the richness and creamy consistency of the casserole. While low-fat or skim milk can be used, the final dish might be slightly less creamy. You can also replace some or all of the milk with additional broth for a dairy-free option, though this will change the texture. For a gourmet twist, consider replacing ¼ cup of the broth and/or milk with a dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc for a more complex flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish. If you only have salted butter, you can use it but might want to slightly reduce any additional salt you add to the recipe.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar: For the best flavor, I highly recommend using a cheese with a strong profile like sharp or extra-sharp cheddar. However, your favorite shredded cheese will work. Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheddar and mozzarella can be delicious alternatives for the topping. Shredding your own cheese often melts better than pre-shredded varieties, which sometimes contain anti-caking agents.
Delicious Variations for Your Broccoli Rice Casserole
This versatile casserole offers many opportunities for customization. Here are some exciting variations to try:
Add Rotisserie Chicken for a Main Dish: Easily transform this side dish into a complete meal by incorporating shredded rotisserie chicken. Add 2-3 cups of shredded cooked chicken after the main cooking time is complete, but before you sprinkle on the cheddar cheese. Stir it in well, then add the cheese and let it melt. The residual heat will warm the chicken through, making for a hearty, flavorful dinner.
Include Raw Chicken Breasts: If you prefer to cook raw chicken with your casserole, you can adapt the method. Cube 1-1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts and add them to the Crockpot along with the other ingredients. The chicken will cook through with the casserole. For a specific recipe designed for raw chicken and long-grain brown rice, check out this slow cooker chicken broccoli rice casserole.
Speed it Up with an Instant Pot: Short on time but still craving cheesy broccoli rice? While this recipe is for a slow cooker, the concept translates well to a pressure cooker. For a faster alternative, explore an Instant Pot cheesy broccoli and rice recipe designed for speed and convenience.
Broccoli Cheese Casserole Without Rice: If you’re looking for a low-carb option or simply prefer a pure broccoli cheese experience, omit the instant rice entirely. This broccoli cheese casserole recipe is made without rice and offers a similar comforting profile.
Flavor Boosters: Elevate the taste with simple additions. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder stirred in with the ingredients will enhance the savory notes. A dash of smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky depth. For a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle some crushed butter crackers (like Ritz), toasted breadcrumbs, or even a handful of French fried onions over the melted cheddar cheese just before serving. This adds a delightful crunch to the creamy casserole.
Vegetarian Option: To make this casserole fully vegetarian, simply substitute the low-sodium chicken broth with vegetable broth. The rest of the ingredients are already vegetarian-friendly.
Essential Equipment for Your Slow Cooker Casserole
Making this Crockpot broccoli rice casserole requires just a few basic kitchen tools:
- Slow Cooker: This is the star of the show, allowing for hands-off cooking and perfectly tender results. Any standard 6-quart or larger Crockpot will work wonderfully for this recipe.
- Chef’s Knife: Essential for dicing the sweet onion efficiently and cubing the Velveeta for easier melting. A sharp knife makes prep work safer and quicker.
- Cutting Board: Provides a stable and sanitary surface for chopping your onion and cubing the Velveeta. A good quality cutting board is a kitchen essential.
Storing and Reheating Your Broccoli Rice Casserole
This Crockpot broccoli rice casserole is fantastic for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Proper storage ensures its deliciousness for days to come:
Refrigerator Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days. Make sure it cools completely before transferring to the container to prevent condensation and maintain freshness.
Freezer Storage: For longer storage, this casserole freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe, airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for 2 to 3 months. For convenience, consider portioning it into individual servings before freezing.
Reheating Instructions:
- From Refrigerator: Reheat individual portions in the microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until thoroughly heated. For larger portions, you can transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
- From Freezer: If frozen, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Once thawed, follow the refrigerator reheating instructions. For a quicker reheat from frozen, you can microwave it for several minutes, stirring occasionally, until hot. You might need to add a splash of milk or broth if it seems too thick after thawing and reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli Rice Casserole
Broccoli rice casserole reheats wonderfully! For individual servings, the microwave is your quickest option. Simply place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway, until piping hot. For larger quantities, you can transfer the casserole to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. If using a slow cooker for reheating, set it to the WARM setting for 30-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until hot.
Broccoli casserole is an incredibly versatile side dish that pairs well with a wide variety of main courses and other sides. It’s an excellent accompaniment to roasted or grilled chicken, baked ham, Thanksgiving turkey, or juicy pork chops. For a balanced meal, serve it alongside other roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a crusty loaf of bread. It also complements other comfort food sides like green bean casserole, corn casserole, or savory corn muffins. Essentially, anything that benefits from a creamy, cheesy companion will be a great match!
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli, but some adjustments are recommended. Chop fresh broccoli into small, uniform pieces, similar to the frozen chopped variety. You might want to briefly steam or blanch the fresh broccoli for 3-5 minutes before adding it to the Crockpot to ensure it becomes fork-tender within the casserole’s cooking time. Otherwise, add it raw and check for tenderness towards the end of the cooking cycle, potentially extending the cook time by 15-30 minutes if needed.
Absolutely! This Crockpot broccoli rice casserole is very freezer-friendly. Once fully cooked and cooled, transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored for up to 2 to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat using your preferred method (microwave or oven).
More Delicious & Easy Side Dish Recipes
If you loved this easy slow cooker Velveeta broccoli rice casserole, be sure to bookmark these other simple and comforting side dishes for your next meal or gathering.
- Stovetop White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
- Cheesy Velveeta Corn Casserole
- Lemon Feta Orzo Salad
- Crockpot Broccoli Rice Casserole
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Crockpot Broccoli Rice Casserole
Equipment
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Slow cooker – A large slow cooker (6-quart or more) is perfect for this family-sized casserole.
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Chef’s knife – For dicing the onion and cubing the Velveeta with ease.
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Cutting board – To safely and hygienically prepare your ingredients.
Ingredients
- 24 ounces frozen chopped broccoli (about 6 cups, no need to thaw)
- 2 cups instant rice (uncooked, such as Minute Rice)
- 1 medium sweet onion (diced finely)
- 16 ounces Velveeta (cubed into 1-inch pieces for easy melting)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces, condensed)
- 1 can cream of celery soup (10.5 ounces, condensed)
- 1 can low-sodium chicken broth (14 ounces, or water for less sodium)
- 1 cup whole milk (for added creaminess)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (sliced into small pieces)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar (for topping)
Instructions
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Prepare the Casserole Base: Add all of the ingredients for the casserole, except for the shredded cheddar cheese, to your Crockpot. This includes the frozen chopped broccoli, instant rice, diced sweet onion, cubed Velveeta, both cans of condensed soup, chicken broth, whole milk, and sliced unsalted butter.
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Stir and Cook: Stir all the combined ingredients thoroughly in the Crockpot until well mixed. Secure the lid and cook on HIGH for 2 hours or on LOW for 4 hours. Make sure to stir the casserole occasionally (every hour or so) during the cooking time to ensure the rice cooks evenly and the Velveeta melts smoothly, preventing any sticking to the sides or bottom of the crock.
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Melt the Topping: Once the casserole is cooked through and the rice is tender, give it one final stir. Evenly sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the hot casserole. Cover the slow cooker with the lid again. If your Crockpot has a “WARM” setting, set it to WARM for approximately 10 minutes, or simply leave it on LOW for about 5-7 minutes, until the cheddar cheese is completely melted and bubbly. Serve immediately and enjoy!
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