One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole Recipe

Published: November 17, 2025

by Aria

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare, saving you time in the kitchen
Its rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering
The vibrant colors of broccoli and golden cheese create a visually appealing dish that brightens up your table
Versatile enough to be served as a main or side dish, it’s perfect for any occasion

Whenever I whip up this casserole, my friends’ eyes light up like Christmas morning. They can’t resist sneaking spoonfuls before it’s even served!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Wild Rice: Use long-grain wild rice for its nutty flavor and unique texture; it’s the star of our casserole.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen works; just ensure they are tender yet crisp for that perfect bite.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Grate your own for maximum meltiness; sharp cheddar adds depth to the casserole.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Use low-sodium options if preferred; this gives our dish its creamy consistency without overwhelming flavors.
Onion: Chopped finely to provide sweetness; sauté until translucent for the best flavor.
Garlic Powder: A sprinkle here goes a long way in enhancing the dish’s flavor profile.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for its fruity notes; it helps sauté vegetables beautifully.
Seasoning Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors; adjust according to taste preference.
Water or Vegetable Broth: Use broth for added flavor; it cooks the rice perfectly while infusing extra taste.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

How to Make One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and lightly coat it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in wild rice along with water or vegetable broth into the skillet. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing the rice to absorb those delicious flavors while cooking according to package instructions.

Mix in Creamy Goodness: Once the rice is cooked, fold in cream of mushroom soup until fully combined. The mixture will become creamy and luscious—just wait till you taste it!

Add Broccoli and Cheese: Gently incorporate broccoli florets into the mixture followed by half of your grated sharp cheddar cheese. Stir well so everything is coated evenly.

Bake It All Together: Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top—this is when the magic happens!

Enjoy serving this delightful casserole hot from the oven! It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or can be enjoyed solo as a filling meal.

There you have it: an easy recipe that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable dish! Your taste buds will thank you as you relish every cheesy bite of this One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole!

You Must Know

One Pan Wild Rice and Cheesy Broccoli Casserole is not just easy; it’s a delightful blend of flavors
The aroma of cheesy goodness fills your kitchen, making everyone eager for dinner
Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests without the stress!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add wild rice and broth. Cook until tender, mix in broccoli and cheese until melted, ensuring all elements combine beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out wild rice for quinoa or add cooked chicken for protein. Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To enhance this casserole, consider adding spices like paprika or cayenne for heat
Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning to your preference
Using fresh broccoli instead of frozen can elevate the texture and flavor significantly

Creating this dish reminds me of family gatherings where laughter and delicious food filled the air, leaving everyone happily stuffed and smiling.

FAQ

What can I substitute for wild rice?

Quinoa or brown rice works great as alternatives to wild rice in this recipe.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day before and store it in the fridge before baking.

How do I ensure my casserole doesn’t dry out?

Add extra broth before reheating to keep it moist and flavorful during cooking.