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A high-quality food photograph of a creamy broccoli and bacon casserole in a white ceramic baking dish with handles. The casserole has a golden-brown melted cheese topping with fresh green broccoli florets and crispy bacon bits scattered throughout. A portion has been served, revealing a light-colored creamy rice base underneath the cheese topping. The baking dish is positioned on a light gray surface with a white napkin partially visible. In the background, there is a small white plate with fresh green salad leaves and purple cabbage. A silver spoon is placed on the right side of the frame. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered around the dish. The lighting is bright and even, creating a professional food photography aesthetic with soft shadows. The image is shot from a slightly elevated angle, showing the texture and layers of the dish clearly.

Loaded Broccoli Rice Casserole

This loaded broccoli rice casserole brings together tender rice, crisp broccoli, cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon in a creamy, comforting bake. It’s simple, hearty, and perfect for a make-ahead meal or an easy dinner that feeds a crowd.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings

Equipment

  • saucepan For preparing cheese sauce
  • Mixing bowl To combine filling ingredients
  • Baking Dish 9x13-inch dish for baking
  • whisk For mixing cheese sauce

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked rice white or brown
  • 2 cups steamed broccoli florets fresh or thawed frozen
  • 4 ounces cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup milk whole or 2%
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
  • 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup sliced green onions optional, for topping
  • 1 tablespoon butter for greasing the dish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.
  • Steam broccoli until just tender. If using frozen broccoli, thaw and drain completely.
  • In a saucepan, combine cream cheese and milk over medium heat. Stir until smooth, then mix in garlic powder, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
  • In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, cheese sauce, and half of the crumbled bacon. Mix until evenly coated.
  • Transfer mixture to the baking dish. Top with remaining cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions.
  • Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until cheese is melted and top is golden. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use leftover rice to save time and improve texture.
  • Swap bacon with sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free version.
  • Try mixing in roasted garlic or caramelized onions for more depth.
Keyword bacon broccoli rice bake, broccoli rice casserole, cheesy rice casserole
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