A comforting and cheesy casserole featuring broccoli and rice, perfect for a family dinner.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the casserole inside for even cooking.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped celery, and sauté until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the vegetables from browning too much.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, sautéed vegetables, evaporated milk, 2 cups of cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Mix gently to avoid breaking the broccoli florets too much.
Transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
For an extra crispy topping, you can add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Check the casserole halfway through to ensure it doesn't overcook.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cheesy broccoli and rice bake!
Letting it rest allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.