Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

This delectable Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole brings together the goodness of rice, broccoli, and a generous amount of cheese, resulting in a mouthwatering one-dish meal. Follow these steps to create the perfect broccoli rice casserole.

 

 

The Importance of the Sauce in Broccoli Rice Casserole

The sauce plays a pivotal role in this broccoli rice casserole. It features a luscious combination of flour, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, finely diced onions, paprika, pepper, and a hint of cayenne, providing a velvety and flavorful experience. The addition of processed cheese enhances the sauce’s creaminess, while Parmesan contributes a delightful touch of saltiness.

 

Cooking Broccoli Before Assembling the Casserole

For the best results, it is recommended to boil the broccoli for 3 to 4 minutes before incorporating it into the casserole. This simple step ensures the broccoli achieves a vibrant green color and is partially cooked, ready to be further baked in the casserole, maintaining its perfect texture.

 

 

Should I Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli in the Casserole?

Regardless of whether you opt for fresh or frozen broccoli, it is essential to cook the broccoli before using it in the casserole. Both varieties can be used in this broccoli rice casserole, ensuring a delightful dish no matter your choice.

 

Velveeta Broccoli Rice Casserole

For those seeking a velvety texture in the creamy cheese sauce, Velveeta cheese can be used in this broccoli rice casserole. While the exact type of processed cheese used by Ree Drummond remains unspecified, many online recipes recommend Velveeta cheese for its smooth and creamy properties.

 

 

How to Store Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

To store leftover cheese and broccoli rice casserole in the refrigerator, allow it to cool to room temperature first, then wrap it with plastic wrap or place it in airtight glass containers. Properly stored, the casserole can last in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, divide the casserole into portions, place each portion in freezer bags with the date labeled, and freeze it for up to 3 to 4 months. Freezing individual portions allows for easier thawing when you’re ready to enjoy this delightful dish again.

 

How to Thaw Frozen Broccoli Rice Casserole

Thawing frozen broccoli rice casserole can be done in different ways, depending on your preference and time constraints:

1. In the Refrigerator: Thaw the frozen casserole in the refrigerator for approximately 24 hours. Keep in mind that the thawing time may vary based on whether you are thawing the entire casserole or individual portions.

2. In Warm Water: Another option is to defrost the frozen casserole by placing it in a container of warm water. Avoid using boiling water, as gradual thawing is preferred. The casserole should defrost in about 2 to 3 hours using this method.

3. In the Oven: It’s important not to thaw the casserole in the oven. Instead, use the oven solely for reheating the thawed casserole when you’re ready to enjoy it. The same rule applies to the microwave.

 

 

How to Reheat Broccoli Rice Casserole

Reheating leftover broccoli rice casserole is simple and can be accomplished using various methods:

1. In the Oven: Cover the leftover casserole with foil and reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. Verify that the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

2. In the Microwave: For a quick individual serving, divide the casserole into portions and reheat them separately in the microwave. Use medium power for approximately 2 minutes per serving.

3. In the Air Fryer: To avoid drying out the casserole, cover it with foil and reheat it in the air fryer at 350°F for 7 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue reheating until it is thoroughly warmed through.

 

 

Ingredients for Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

⦁ – 4 tablespoons (½ stick) salted butter
⦁ – 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, or 2 cups diced rotisserie chicken

⦁ – 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
⦁ – 1 garlic clove, grated
⦁ – 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
⦁ – ½ teaspoon dry mustard
⦁ – ¼ teaspoon cayenne
⦁ – 3 cups whole milk
⦁ – 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
⦁ – ½ cup grated Parmesan
⦁ – 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
⦁ – ½ teaspoon kosher salt
⦁ – ½ teaspoon paprika
⦁ – 8 ounces processed cheese, cubed
⦁ – 3 cups grated sharp Cheddar
⦁ – 8 cups small broccoli florets
⦁ – 6 ounces diced pimentos, drained
⦁ – 2 ½ cups cooked long-grain rice

 

 

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet, melt the salted butter over medium heat. Add the finely diced onions and grated garlic, stirring occasionally, until they become softened, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.

3. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour, dry mustard, and cayenne over the onions and garlic. Stir to combine, and continue cooking for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.

4. Pour in the whole milk and stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Add the cream cheese and grated Parmesan, stirring until the sauce becomes completely smooth. Incorporate the freshly ground black pepper, kosher salt, and paprika, ensuring they are well mixed.

5. Stir continuously until all the cheese has completely melted, then add the cubed processed cheese and 1 ½ cups of grated sharp Cheddar. Stir until they melt, creating a creamy and velvety cheese sauce.

6. Gently fold in the small broccoli florets and drained diced pimentos into the cheese sauce, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

7. Spread half of the cooked long-grain rice in an even layer at the bottom of a large baking dish.

8. Pour half of the broccoli cheese sauce over the rice, ensuring it covers the rice evenly.

9. Repeat the layering process with the remaining rice and sauce.

10. Sprinkle the remaining grated sharp Cheddar on top of the casserole in an even layer.

11. Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for approximately 30 minutes or until it becomes bubbly and golden brown on top.

12. Once done, serve the delicious and creamy broccoli rice casserole hot, alongside your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful casserole, perfect for a comforting family meal or a delightful potluck gathering!

 

 

Nutritional Facts

⦁ – Calories: 1021
⦁ – Total Fat: 69g
⦁ – Saturated Fat: 39g
⦁ – Trans Fat: 2g
⦁ – Unsaturated Fat: 21g
⦁ – Cholesterol: 201mg
⦁ – Sodium: 1744 mg
⦁ – Carbohydrates: 55g
⦁ – Fiber: 8g
⦁ – Sugar: 14g
⦁ – Protein: 49g

 

 

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Steps to avoid while preparing Pioneer Woman Broccoli Chicken Rice Casserole

1. Overcooking the onions and garlic: Be cautious not to overcook the onions and garlic while sautéing them in butter. Overcooking can lead to a bitter taste and overpower the flavors of the casserole.

2. Rushing the thickening process: Take your time while stirring in the flour and other seasonings to create a smooth and creamy sauce. Rushing this step can result in lumps and an uneven consistency.

3. Using too much dry mustard and cayenne: Both dry mustard and cayenne add a hint of spiciness to the casserole. Use them sparingly, as too much can overwhelm the dish and make it excessively spicy.

4. Neglecting to adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce as you cook and adjust the seasonings accordingly. Remember that the cheese already contributes some saltiness, so be mindful of adding additional salt.

5. Skipping the step of blanching the broccoli: Boiling the broccoli for a few minutes before adding it to the casserole helps preserve its vibrant green color and ensures it cooks evenly during baking.

6. Using low-quality cheeses: Opt for good quality cheeses, such as sharp Cheddar and Parmesan, to enhance the overall flavor of the casserole. Avoid using processed cheeses with artificial additives.

7. Overbaking the casserole: Keep an eye on the casserole while baking to prevent it from becoming too dry. Overbaking can result in a less creamy texture and tough broccoli.

8. Storing leftovers improperly: When storing leftover casserole, make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing. Use airtight containers to preserve its freshness.

 

 

FAQ

1. Q: What is Pioneer Woman Broccoli Rice Casserole?
A: Pioneer Woman Broccoli Rice Casserole is a delicious one-dish meal featuring cooked rice, broccoli, and a creamy cheese sauce.

2. Q: How do I make Pioneer Woman Broccoli Rice Casserole?
A: To make this casserole, you sauté onions and garlic in butter, create a creamy sauce with flour, milk, and cheeses, then mix in broccoli and rice before baking.

3. Q: Can I use frozen broccoli in the recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli in Pioneer Woman Broccoli Rice Casserole, but it’s essential to blanch it briefly before using to ensure optimal texture.

4. Q: How long does it take to bake the casserole?
A: The casserole typically bakes in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes or until it becomes bubbly and golden brown on top.

5. Q: Can I substitute the cheeses in the recipe?
A: While you can experiment with cheese substitutions, using a combination of processed cheese, Cheddar, and Parmesan gives the casserole its creamy and flavorful profile.

6. Q: Is Pioneer Woman Broccoli Rice Casserole gluten-free?
A: The recipe might contain gluten due to the use of all-purpose flour in the sauce. For a gluten-free version, consider using a gluten-free flour alternative.

7. Q: How can I store leftovers of Pioneer Woman Broccoli Rice Casserole?
A: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 to 4 months.

8. Q: Can I prepare the casserole in advance and bake it later?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Just remember to adjust baking time if the casserole is cold from the fridge.

9. Q: Is Pioneer Woman Broccoli Rice Casserole suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, the casserole can be made vegetarian-friendly by using vegetable broth or water instead of chicken broth in the sauce.

10. Q: Can I add extra vegetables or proteins to the casserole?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the casserole by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, such as diced chicken or mushrooms, to make it even heartier and more nutritious.