This Crockpot Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole brings back the comforting flavors of your childhood, now made effortlessly in the slow cooker! Prepared using Creamy rice, fresh broccoli florets, sharp cheddar cheese, and either chicken or ham come together to create an ideal side or main dish.

To make Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole in your slow cooker or crockpot, combine rice, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and chicken or ham. Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until bubbly and perfectly cooked.

Alright, folks, this recipe is as easy as pie, but way cheesier! Give it a whirl, chuckle at the simplicity, and don’t forget to drop a comment below or share how it turned out for you!

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Slow Cooker Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole Ingredients

• 3 cups of chicken broth
• 1 pound of broccoli florets
• 2 cups of uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (or substitute with cubed ham)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup of evaporated milk
• 1 tsp of garlic salt
• 1/2 tsp of black pepper
• 8 oz of sharp cheddar cheese, grated

How To Make Slow Cooker Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole

1. Prepare the Broth: Start by bringing the chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. When it’s bubbling, add the broccoli florets and let them cook for 3 minutes to just start softening.
2. Combine the Ingredients: Transfer the hot broth and broccoli into your slow cooker. Toss in the uncooked rice, your choice of chicken or ham, both cans of soup, evaporated milk, garlic salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir to mix everything evenly.
3. Add the Cheese: Mix in half of the grated cheddar cheese with the other ingredients in the slow cooker.
4. Cook the Casserole: Secure the lid and set your slow cooker to high. Let the casserole cook for about 2 hours. Note: Cooking times can vary based on the model of your slow cooker, so check at the 90-minute mark and adjust as needed.
5. Finish with More Cheese: Once the rice and chicken are tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover it back up and let it cook for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Scoop generous portions onto plates, serving hot. Dive into the creamy, cheesy goodness of your Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole.

Recipe Tips

• Cheese selection matters: Opt for cheeses that melt well, like mozzarella or provolone, alongside the sharp cheddar to add a creamy texture and rich flavor to your casserole.
• Rice type is key: Using basmati or jasmine rice can add a unique fragrance and a slightly different texture to the dish, making each bite a bit more special.
• Vegetable variations: Don’t hesitate to throw in some carrots or bell peppers for a pop of color and added nutrition; just chop them finely and mix them in before cooking.
• Meat options: While chicken is a classic, swapping it for turkey or even a plant-based protein can keep the dish feeling new and cater to different dietary needs without losing the essence of the recipe.

Recipe Variations

• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soup alternatives and thickeners to adapt this recipe for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Try Vegan: Opt for plant-based cheese and milk and switch to vegan-friendly soups to cater to vegan palates.
• Cut the Carbs: Replace rice with cauliflower rice and adjust the soup base to suit a ketogenic lifestyle.
• Boost the Creaminess: Add a touch of cream cheese or heavy cream for an ultra-rich texture.

What To Serve With Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole

Serve your Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole with roasted beet and orange salad, Green Beans With Smoked Turkey, spiced pear compote, Dim Sims, and a vibrant kale slaw.

You can also pair it with ginger-glazed carrots, Sweet Potato Wedges, and a tangy apple cider vinegar dressing.

How To Store Leftover Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole

In The Fridge:

Store the leftover Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3 to 4 days when properly sealed and refrigerated. Ensure the casserole cools to room temperature before storing to prevent moisture buildup.

In The Freezer:

Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating. Store it in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrapped in foil. Label with the date and use within 2 months for best quality.

How To Reheat Leftover Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole

Reheat your leftover Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole by placing it in a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap to trap steam and ensure even heating. Heat on high for about 2-3 minutes or until hot throughout. Stir halfway through reheating for best results.

Check out More Slow Cooker Recipes:

• Slow Cooker Pierogi Casserole
• Slow Cooker Hobo Casserole Recipe
• Slow Cooker Tater Tot (Potato Gem) Casserole