Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice

Name: Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Ideas

I absolutely adore making this Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice on lazy weekends. It’s a delightful way to use up leftover rice while creating a comforting dish that is both creamy and nutritious. The combination of tender broccoli, savory cheese, and a hint of garlic brings me pure happiness every time I serve it. Baked to perfection, this dish has become a weekly favorite in our household, making it a staple on our Sunday dinner table. Trust me, you will love how easy and satisfying this recipe is!

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-01-14T00:37:36.426Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was pleasantly surprised by how well everything came together. The creamy sauce envelops the broccoli and rice, making it feel like a warm embrace in every bite. I’ve found that adding a pinch of nutmeg elevates the flavors beautifully, giving it that extra something that makes guests ask for seconds!

After countless attempts, I discovered that baking the dish instead of just stove-top cooking really allows the flavors to meld together wonderfully. It also gives a slight crispness to the top which is irresistible. Pair it with a simple salad, and you’ve got a perfect meal for any Sunday!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that comforts and delights
Nutritious broccoli packed with flavor
Simple ingredients for an easy weeknight dish

      

Cooking with Leftovers

This Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice is a fantastic solution for using up leftover rice. The texture of the rice plays a key role; using day-old rice, which has dried out a bit, helps the dish achieve the right consistency as it absorbs the creamy mixture while baking. If you don’t have leftover rice, you can cook a fresh batch. Just be sure to allow it to cool before adding it to the other ingredients to prevent mushiness.

Incorporating leftover rice not only adds convenience but also enhances the flavor profile of this dish. You can experiment by mixing in any herbs or spices that you love—dried herbs like thyme or oregano can bring a delightful twist, while some fresh parsley sprinkled on top before serving can add a burst of freshness.

Cheese and Cream Balance

Choosing the right cheese is essential for achieving that creamy, flavor-packed result. Cheddar cheese provides a robust flavor that melts beautifully, but you can customize this recipe by using a combination of cheeses such as mozzarella for stretchiness or cream cheese for extra creaminess. If you're looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt can substitute half of the heavy cream without sacrificing too much richness.

The heavy cream delivers a luscious texture that melds perfectly with the rice and broccoli, creating a cohesive dish. If you want to reduce the fat content, opt for half-and-half or even a lighter milk variant. Do keep in mind that this may slightly alter the creaminess, so adjust accordingly with additional seasoning for flavor enhancement.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the entire dish the day before and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time as it will be chilled. This method not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully overnight.

If you have leftovers, this Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, for a quicker option, using a microwave works well; cover the dish to retain moisture and heat at medium power. This makes for an excellent weekday lunch option that feels indulgent!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to prepare this delicious dish.

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
2 cups broccoli florets
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Once you have everything ready, you’re all set to start cooking!

Instructions

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to create your Sunday Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice.

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, broccoli florets, shredded cheese, heavy cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.

Add Topping

Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top to create a crunchy texture.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until golden and bubbly on top.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious creation with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding some red pepper flakes or mixing in some cooked chicken or ham for protein.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Creamy Broccoli Rice is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or a simple salad. The rich, savory profile complements grilled chicken or fish effortlessly. For a vegetarian meal, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or a side of roasted vegetables to the table to elevate the experience.

For a crunchier topping, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs or adding crushed tortilla chips for a fun twist. You can also serve it in individual ramekins for a charming presentation; just reduce the baking time slightly, checking for doneness after 20 minutes.

Ingredient Substitutions

Many ingredients in this recipe can be substituted to meet dietary preferences or use up what you have on hand. For a gluten-free version, swap traditional breadcrumbs for panko made from gluten-free bread. If you're avoiding dairy, a blend of plant-based cream and nutritional yeast can mimic the flavor and creaminess without compromising texture.

The broccoli can also be replaced with other vegetables like spinach or kale. Just make sure to sauté them briefly first if they’re fresh, or adjust cook time if you're using frozen, to ensure they don’t release too much water into the dish. This adaptability makes the recipe suitable for various dietary needs.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your baked rice turns out too dry, this may be due to overbaking or a lack of liquid in your mixture. It’s crucial to monitor the baking time closely and consider adding an extra splash of cream or milk before serving if necessary. If you find the top is browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while baking the bottom evenly.

Another common issue is the dish being too bland. Ensure you are seasoning adequately with salt and pepper, considering the natural flavors of your ingredients. Also, don’t hesitate to add a bit of your favorite hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for an added punch of flavor!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the mix.

→ What kind of rice works best?

Any cooked rice works, but long-grain or basmati gives a nice texture.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it the day before and just bake it right before serving.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes, simply skip any meat and use vegetable broth instead of cream for a lighter dish.