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Cheesy Broccoli and Wild Rice Casserole
In the realm of comfort foods, few dishes can match the wholesome goodness and satisfying flavors of a broccoli and wild rice casserole.
This classic dish has been a staple on family dinner tables for generations, and for good reason.
Its creamy texture, the nuttiness of wild rice, and the sharpness of cheddar cheese come together in a harmonious blend that tantalizes the taste buds and warms the soul.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into why this casserole is so delicious, explore the delightful addition of shredded chicken, and provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating this recipe too.
Table of Contents
I got this recipe inspiration from Joanna Gaines Volume 2 Cookbook.
Broccoli and Wild Rice Casserole
What makes this casserole so irresistible is the combination of diverse textures and complementary flavors.
The broccoli adds a satisfying crunch, the wild rice contributes a nutty and chewy element, and the cheddar cheese infuses a rich, gooey goodness that binds it all together.
The marriage of these ingredients creates a dish that is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a favorite for families seeking both taste and health benefits.
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The Benefits of Broccoli
Broccoli, a cruciferous vegetable, is a nutritional powerhouse. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, broccoli contributes to a well-rounded and healthy diet.
It provides a significant amount of vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and is a good source of fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Including broccoli in this casserole not only enhances its flavor but also boosts its nutritional profile.
The Nutty Goodness of Wild Rice
Wild rice, often considered a superfood, adds a unique and nutty flavor to the casserole.
Unlike white rice, wild rice is a whole grain that retains its bran layer, providing additional fiber, protein, and a range of essential nutrients.
The chewy texture of wild rice contrasts beautifully with the tender broccoli and contributes to the overall appeal of the dish.
The Irresistible Sharpness of Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese brings a bold and sharp flavor to the casserole, elevating it to new heights for your taste buds.
The creaminess of the melted cheddar creates a luxurious sauce that coats every bite, making each mouthful a harmony of flavors.
Cheddar also provides a good dose of calcium and protein, making this casserole a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Adding a Twist: Shredded Chicken
For those looking to elevate this classic dish and add a protein punch, consider incorporating shredded chicken into the recipe.
The addition of chicken not only enhances the nutritional value but also introduces a savory element that complements the existing flavors.
Choose rotisserie chicken for added convenience or cook and shred chicken breasts for a fresher touch.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups wild rice, (one 16oz package) uncooked
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 T all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- Cooking Spray
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 8 oz sharp Cheddar cheese, grated (about 2 cups)
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 head), steamed until tender
- 1 cup shredded chicken (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice mix and 3 cups of the chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed, about 30 minutes
- Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant and slightly browned, about 3 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour and cook for 2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly stir in the milk and remaining 1 cup broth and stir until smooth and starting to thicken.
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Add the cream cheese and 1 cup of the cheddar to the roux and stir until the cheese is melted. Add the garlic salt, salt, pepper, broccoli, and cooked wild rice and stir until well combined.
- Pour the broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining 1 cup cheddar. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbling, 15 to 20 minutes. If you want a browned top, broil the casserole for up to 5 minutes, watching it carefully.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
In the realm of comfort foods, the broccoli cheddar and wild rice casserole stands out as a true culinary delight. Its combination of textures and flavors creates a dish that is not only delicious but also nutritious.
By adding shredded chicken to the mix, you can take this classic recipe to new heights, making it a versatile and satisfying meal for any occasion.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and treat yourself to the savory goodness of this timeless casserole. Your taste buds will thank you.
Optional Side Dishes
Skillet Green Beans with onions and garlic
Brocolli and Wild Rice Casserole
Ingredients
- 2 cups wild rice (one 16oz package) uncooked
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 4 tablespoons 1/2 stick unsalted butter
- ½ small yellow onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 T all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- Cooking Spray
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 8 oz sharp Cheddar cheese grated (about 2 cups)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 4 cups broccoli florets about 1 head, steamed until tender
- 1 cup shredded chicken optional
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the wild rice mix and 3 cups of the chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, cover, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook until the rice is tender and the broth is absorbed, about 30 minutes
- Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant and slightly browned, about 3 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour and cook for 2 minutes to make a roux. Slowly stir in the milk and remaining 1 cup broth and stir until smooth and starting to thicken.
- Preheat the oven to 350 °F degrees. Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Add the cream cheese and 1 cup of the cheddar to the roux and stir until the cheese is melted. Add the garlic salt, salt, pepper, broccoli, and cooked wild rice and stir until well combined.
- Pour the broccoli mixture into the prepared baking dish and top with the remaining 1 cup cheddar. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbling, 15 to 20 minutes. If you want a browned top, broil the casserole for up to 5 minutes, watching it carefully.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
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