Broccoli rice casserole with Cheese Whiz is a beloved comfort food known for its rich, creamy texture and cheesy flavor. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, and potlucks. The combination of tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and velvety Cheese Whiz creates a satisfying side dish or even a hearty main course. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—customizable with different add-ins like chicken, mushrooms, or crunchy toppings.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to make the best broccoli rice casserole with Cheese Whiz, ingredient variations, and expert tips to enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
What Is Broccoli Rice Casserole with Cheese Whiz?
Broccoli rice casserole is a classic American dish that dates back decades, often making appearances at holiday tables and weeknight meals. The addition of Cheese Whiz—a smooth, processed cheese spread—gives the casserole its signature creamy texture and cheesy taste. Unlike traditional cheese sauces that require melting and thickening, Cheese Whiz simplifies the process, making this recipe quick and hassle-free.
This casserole became popular because of its simple ingredients and comforting, home-cooked feel. It’s a go-to dish for those who want an easy, delicious meal with minimal effort.
Why Use Cheese Whiz in a Casserole?
Cheese Whiz adds a unique creaminess and bold cheese flavor that blends perfectly with broccoli and rice. Here’s why it works so well in this dish:
✅ Convenience – Unlike shredded cheese, which needs melting and mixing, Cheese Whiz is already smooth and creamy, saving time.
✅ Consistent Texture – Cheese Whiz ensures even distribution throughout the casserole, preventing clumps or uneven melting.
✅ Rich Flavor – The processed cheese spread has a bold, salty, and tangy taste that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
✅ Kid-Friendly – Its smooth and creamy texture makes the casserole appealing to picky eaters who might otherwise avoid broccoli.
Ingredients for Broccoli Rice Casserole with Cheese Whiz
To make a delicious and creamy broccoli rice casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice – Provides a hearty base for the casserole.
- 2 cups steamed broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen broccoli works well. Steam until tender but not mushy.
- 1 cup Cheese Whiz – The key ingredient for a creamy, cheesy texture.
- ½ cup milk – Helps thin out the Cheese Whiz for smoother mixing.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Adds extra richness and depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory taste.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder – Adds a subtle oniony kick.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste, as Cheese Whiz is already salty.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – For a mild spice kick.
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For extra cheesiness.
- 1 cup cooked, diced chicken – Turns the casserole into a complete meal.
- ½ cup sautéed mushrooms – Adds an earthy, umami flavor.
- ½ cup French fried onions or crushed Ritz crackers – For a crispy topping.
How to Make Broccoli Rice Casserole with Cheese Whiz
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
To begin, cook the rice according to the package instructions until it’s fluffy and tender, then set it aside.
Meanwhile, steam the broccoli until just tender, about 4–5 minutes. Be sure not to overcook it, as you want it to maintain a bit of crunch for the best texture in your broccoli rice casserole with Cheese Whiz. Drain well and set aside.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine Cheese Whiz and milk, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Next, stir in the cream of mushroom soup, along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well so the seasonings blend evenly into the sauce, creating a rich, cheesy base for the broccoli rice casserole with Cheese Whiz.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce. Stir everything together until the broccoli rice casserole with Cheese Whiz mixture is well coated and evenly combined.
Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
Step 4: Add Toppings (Optional but Recommended!)
For a cheesy, golden topping, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the casserole.
To add a crispy texture, top the casserole with French fried onions or crushed Ritz crackers. These toppings enhance the broccoli rice casserole with Cheese Whiz by adding a flavorful crunch.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and golden brownon top.
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors meld and make it easier to serve.
Enjoy your broccoli rice casserole with Cheese Whiz, a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion! 😋Serving Suggestions for Broccoli Rice Casserole with Cheese Whiz
This creamy and cheesy casserole is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and proteins. Here are some delicious serving ideas:
As a Side Dish:
- Serve alongside grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or baked ham for a comforting meal.
- Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Add a side of buttered dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up every bit of the cheesy sauce.
As a Main Dish:
- Turn the casserole into a complete meal by adding cooked chicken, turkey, or ham directly into the mixture.
- Stir in a can of drained chickpeas or black beans for a vegetarian protein boost.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or roasted Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
Variations and Customization Ideas
Want to switch things up? Here are some creative ways to customize your Broccoli Rice Casserole with Cheese Whiz:
Easy Ways to Customize Your Broccoli Rice Casserole with Cheese Whiz
1. Make It Extra Cheesy
If you love an ultra-cheesy casserole, try adding ½ cup of shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or mozzarella to the cheese sauce. This will create an even richer, creamier texture that makes every bite irresistible.
For a nutty, savory twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking. This enhances the cheesy flavor and gives the casserole a golden, slightly crispy topping.
2. Add More Vegetables
Boost the nutrition and flavor by mixing in ½ cup of diced bell peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or shredded carrots. These ingredients add vibrant color and an extra layer of taste to your broccoli rice casserole with Cheese Whiz.
For a boost of greens, stir in a handful of spinach or kale before baking. The greens will soften perfectly in the warm, cheesy sauce, blending seamlessly into the casserole.
3. Give It a Protein Boost
Turn your broccoli rice casserole with Cheese Whiz into a hearty meal by adding 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken, diced ham, or crumbled bacon. These proteins complement the cheesy, creamy base and make the dish even more filling.
For a creamy protein boost, mix in ½ cup of cottage cheese or Greek yogurt. This enhances the texture and adds an extra dose of protein without overpowering the dish.
4. Spice It Up
If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the casserole a subtle kick.
For a more complex, tangy depth of flavor, stir in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard or hot sauce. This balances the richness of the cheese and enhances its natural savoriness.
5. Make It Crunchy
For a crunchy, golden topping, swap out fried onions for crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or chopped pecans. These add a crisp texture to contrast the creamy filling.
For a fun and slightly buttery crunch, mix in ½ cup of crushed Ritz crackers or Goldfish crackers. This adds a delightful twist that pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness of your broccoli rice casserole with Cheese Whiz.
With these easy customizations, you can make your broccoli rice casserole with Cheese Whiz as cheesy, flavorful, and unique as you like! 😋
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your casserole fresh and delicious, follow these simple storage and reheating tips:
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating
- Warm individual portions in the microwave for 30–45 seconds until heated through.
- For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore the crispy topping.
Freezing
- To freeze, assemble the casserole but do not bake.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before placing it in the oven.
2. Can I Use Fresh Broccoli Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If using fresh broccoli, steam or blanch it for 2–3 minutes before adding it to the casserole to ensure it’s tender.
3. What Type of Rice Works Best for This Recipe?
Long-grain white rice is the most common choice, but you can also use brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
4. How Do I Make This Casserole Less Salty?
Since Cheese Whiz is already salty, you can:
- Use low-sodium cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup.
- Reduce or omit additional salt.
- Add extra rice or vegetables to balance out the saltiness.
5. Can I Make This Casserole Without Cheese Whiz?
Yes! If you prefer a homemade cheese sauce, melt 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese with ½ cup milk and 1 tablespoon butter, stirring until smooth.
Conclusion
This Broccoli Rice Casserole with Cheese Whiz is a true comfort food classic that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Its creamy, cheesy texture and rich flavors make it a favorite for all ages. Plus, with so many customization options, you can easily tailor it to fit your family’s preferences.
Looking for more comforting casserole recipes? Check out our Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole for another creamy and crunchy favorite. If you’re a fan of breakfast casseroles, you’ll love this Sausage Gravy Breakfast Casserole packed with rich and savory flavors.
Try this recipe today, and enjoy a cheesy, hearty, and satisfying dish that will keep everyone coming back for more!
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole with Cheese Whiz
Equipment
- 1 Pressure cooker Optional, for faster cooking
- 1 9×13-inch baking dish For baking the casserole
- 1 Mixing bowl To combine ingredients
- 1 Saucepan To prepare the cheese sauce
Ingredients
- 2 cups Cooked rice White or brown
- 3 cups Broccoli florets Steamed until tender
- 1 can Cream of mushroom soup Or cream of chicken
- 1 ½ cups Cheese Whiz Melted
- ½ cup Milk Any type
- ½ tsp Garlic powder Optional, for flavor
- ½ tsp Onion powder Optional, for flavor
- ½ tsp Salt Adjust to taste
- ½ tsp Black pepper Freshly ground
- ½ cup Shredded cheddar cheese Optional, for extra cheesiness
- ½ cup French fried onions Optional, for a crunchy topping
Instructions
- Start by preparing the ingredients. Cook the rice according to package instructions and set it aside. Steam the broccoli until tender, about 4–5 minutes, then drain and set aside. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Next, make the cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt the Cheese Whiz and stir in the milk until smooth. Add the cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until fully combined and creamy.
- Now, assemble the casserole. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce, stirring until everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- For extra flavor, add toppings. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top for extra cheesiness. If desired, add French fried onions or crushed Ritz crackers for a crispy, golden topping that adds a delicious crunch.
- Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the dish is bubbling and golden brown on top. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.