If there’s one dish that takes me back to my childhood, it has to be the comforting, homely, and utterly delicious Broccoli Rice Casserole. I have fond memories of coming home after school to the mouth-watering aroma wafting from the kitchen. This dish, with its creamy, cheesy goodness, hearty rice, and nutritious broccoli, was a staple in our home, and for a good reason. Not only is it packed with flavors that make you go ‘mmm’, but it’s also super simple to make and a great way to sneak in some veggies for the kids. This classic American dish, often found at potlucks and family gatherings, has a rich history. Its origins can be traced back to the 1950s, a time when casseroles were gaining popularity in American households for their convenience and versatility. The dish has evolved over the years, with many adding their unique twist to it, but the heart of the recipe remains the same – wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly comforting and delicious. This recipe has a special place in my heart and my kitchen. I love it for its simplicity, its flavors, and the nostalgia it brings with every bite. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 chopped onion
- 1 rib chopped celery
- 1/2 stick butter
- 1 (10 oz.) pkg. frozen broccoli, cooked and well drained
- 2 1/2 c. cooked rice
- 1 (10 3/4 oz.) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 4 oz. cheez Whiz
- dash of Tabasco
- pepper to taste
Baking Instructions
- Saute onion and celery in butter until tender.
- Combine onions and celery with remaining ingredients.
- Pour into greased 1 1/2-quart baking dish.
- Bake at 350°.
- Better if prepared a day ahead.
- Freezes well.
Calorie: 350
Total cooking time: 1 Hour
Difficulty level: Easy
The Tale of the Broccoli Rice Casserole, Starring an Onion and Celery Duo
I swear on my grandmother’s old, stained cookbook that I’ve never met an onion that I didn’t like. Well, except for that one time… but we don’t talk about that incident. It involved a blender, a dare, and a very unhappy cat. Anyway, this tale begins with our heroic duo, the onion and celery, who get to know each other quite intimately in the sizzling pan of melted butter.
Sauteing these two together until tender is like watching two old friends catch up over a cup of coffee. The butter, not wanting to feel left out, willingly joins the conversation, wrapping both in a warm, comforting embrace. Ah, the joys of clarified friendships!
The Unexpected Arrival of Mr. Frozen Broccoli
Just when the onion and celery thought they had the pan to themselves, along came Mr. Frozen Broccoli. He’d just returned from his hot spa treatment (a.k.a. the microwave) and was feeling quite drained.
As I watched our green friend mingle with the onion and celery, I couldn’t help but chuckle. Who knew vegetables could have such a vibrant social life?
Rice Joins the Party, and Things Get Creamy
As the veggies were having a grand old time, in comes rice, strutting about like a peacock. Cooked to perfection, it was ready to shake things up. And boy, did it! With a deft hand, I united all these ingredients, adding a can of condensed cream of chicken soup into the mix. You could almost hear the collective gasp from the pan.
A Cheesy Twist with a Dash of Spice
Just when things were starting to settle, I added a curveball to the saga – the 4 oz. of cheez Whiz. This was no ordinary cheese, oh no! This was the life of the party, the one who makes everyone do the conga line around the kitchen.
And for that extra kick, I added a dash of Tabasco and pepper to taste. Because what’s a party without a little spice, right?
The Great Bake Off and The Big Chill
After the wild party in the pan, it was time for everyone to find their place in the greased 1 1/2 quart baking dish. As I slid the dish into the oven preheated at 350°, I couldn’t help but feel like a proud parent sending their kid off to college.
I knew from past experience that this casserole would only get better if prepared a day ahead. Much like us humans, it needed some downtime to really come into its own. And the best part? It freezes well! So, it’s like the gift that keeps on giving.
Curtain Call
And there you have it, folks! The entertaining tale of how a humble broccoli rice casserole came to be. Full of laughter, surprises, and a dash of drama, this cooking experience was anything but ordinary. So, the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, remember: every ingredient has a story. And who knows? Maybe your onion and celery will turn out to be the best of friends too.
