Description
This Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make family meal packed with tender broccoli, fluffy rice, smoky turkey bacon bites, and melted plant-based cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend gatherings, it delivers comforting flavors with wholesome ingredients and versatile options for different dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 3 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Protein and Cheese
- 4 slices smoked turkey bacon, cut into small pieces
- 1 cup shredded plant-based cheese
Liquids and Flavorings
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Other
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cook rice according to package instructions and allow to cool slightly. Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets, finely dice onion and garlic, and cut smoked turkey bacon into small pieces.
- Sauté the Aromatics and Bacon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and smoked turkey bacon pieces, cooking until bacon is crispy and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Broccoli: Add broccoli florets to the skillet and sauté for another 5 minutes until tender yet still vibrant and slightly crisp.
- Mix the Casserole Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, sautéed onion, garlic, bacon, broccoli, shredded plant-based cheese, plant-based milk, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle in natural gelling agent and stir until fully combined.
- Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use leftover or chilled rice to prevent the casserole from becoming mushy.
- Cut broccoli florets uniformly for even cooking and better presentation.
- Select plant-based cheese that melts well for a perfect creamy layer.
- Add just enough natural gelling agent to keep the filling creamy without stiffening.
- Allow casserole to rest after baking for easier serving and to avoid spills.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: broccoli rice casserole, plant-based casserole, turkey bacon casserole, family meal, easy dinner, gluten free casserole
