A Cracker Barrel Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, and pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Juicy grilled chicken adds a savory protein element that balances the creamy richness of the casserole. 

For a touch of sweetness and vibrant color, honey-glazed carrots make a delightful addition to the plate. If you’re craving something crispy and buttery, garlic breadsticks are an irresistible choice. 

A fresh Caesar salad with crunchy greens and tangy dressing complements the casserole’s cheesy warmth perfectly. For a more adventurous pairing, stuffed peppers provide an exciting burst of flavor and texture. With these combinations, your cozy night in just got even cozier!

There’s something undeniably comforting about a good casserole, don’t you think? I remember watching family members gather for dinners that featured bubbling dishes fresh from the oven. 

These were the moments where laughter and love filled the air, often accompanied by the rich aroma of food wafting through the house. 

One dish that never fails to make an appearance on these occasions is the Broccoli Rice Casserole from Cracker Barrel. Its ease of preparation and delicious flavor have made it a beloved staple.

This dish embodies all that is joyful about comfort food. With cheese, rice, and tender broccoli, it’s practically a warm hug in a bowl. Let’s explore this mouthwatering creation, how it stands out, and how you can make it shine on your dinner table.

What is Cracker Barrel Broccoli Rice Casserole?

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Rice Casserole is a creamy, cheesy dish that brings together three main components: cooked rice, broccoli florets, and a luscious creamy sauce, usually made from condensed soup. 

Baked to perfection and topped with crunchy Ritz crackers, it provides a satisfying union of textures and flavors. This casserole is not just a side dish; it’s the star of the meal.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Casseroles?

What sets this recipe apart from other versions of broccoli rice casseroles is its simplicity and depth of flavor. Many recipes can get bogged down in too many ingredients or complicated steps. This one cuts straight to the essentials:

• Ease of Preparation: With just a few steps and minimal chopping, you can have this dish ready for the oven in no time.
• Comforting Combination: The mix of creamy soup, cheese, and crunchy topping offers a nice contrast.
• Versatility: While it’s fantastic on its own, it can also complement a wide range of proteins, from chicken to fish.

This recipe embraces simplicity while delivering comfort, making it ideal for busy nights or gathering with family and friends.

How Does It Taste?

Picture biting into a spoonful of cheesy goodness. The creamy consistency coats your taste buds while the broccoli adds a hint of earthiness. The warmth of the dish accompanies the crunch of the buttery Ritz cracker topping. 

This blend of textures creates a symphony of flavor in your mouth. The subtle kick from the red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of zing, ensuring that every bite is exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

Before diving into the cooking instructions, here’s what’s on the grocery list:

• 1 cup cooked instant rice
• 1 (10 ounce) can of creamy chicken soup
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 (10 ounce) bag of broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by cooking your instant rice according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, finely dice the onion. If you’re using fresh broccoli, cut it into small florets.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent. This should take about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onions, cooked rice, creamy chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, broccoli florets, melted butter, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 5: Cracker Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with a little melted butter. This will help the topping achieve that perfect golden crispiness. Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the casserole.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to serve. Enjoy it as a side dish or on its own!

Tips & Tricks On Making Cracker Barrel Broccoli Rice Casserole

• Use Leftover Chicken or Turkey: Chopped cooked meat can easily be mixed in for extra protein.
• Substitute with Different Cheeses: Don’t limit yourself to cheddar; try mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist.
• Broccoli Alternatives: If broccoli’s not your thing, cauliflower or green beans work quite nicely too.
• Add More Flavor: Toss in some cooked bacon or ham for additional savoriness.
• Make It Ahead of Time: This casserole is perfect for prep! Assemble it a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when needed.

How Do I Store This Dish?

Storing leftovers? It’s super easy! Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can last in the fridge for about three to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It should maintain its quality for about three months in the freezer.

What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Cracker Barrel Broccoli Rice Casserole?

1. Quinoa: Swap out the rice for cooked quinoa. It’s a fantastic source of protein and fiber.
2. Canned Soup Alternatives: Use cream of mushroom or a vegetarian soup to make it more inclusive.
3. Greek Yogurt: Replace some of the creamy soup with Greek yogurt for a tangy touch and extra protein.
4. Vegetable Broth: For a lighter version, use a low-sodium vegetable broth instead of creamy soup.
5. Plant-Based Cheese: For a vegan take, opt for plant-based cheese alternatives. They melt nicely and taste great.

Pamela Dunlap

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

A Cracker Barrel Broccoli Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, and pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 5

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 462

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1 cup cooked instant rice
• 1 10 ounce can of creamy chicken soup
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
• 1 10 ounce bag of broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup crushed Ritz crackers
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl

Method

 

1. Start by cooking your instant rice according to the package instructions. Meanwhile, finely dice the onion. If you’re using fresh broccoli, cut it into small florets.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent. This should take about 5 minutes.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onions, cooked rice, creamy chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, broccoli florets, melted butter, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.
5. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed Ritz crackers with a little melted butter. This will help the topping achieve that perfect golden crispiness. Sprinkle the cracker mixture over the casserole.
6. Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden on top.
7. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to serve. Enjoy it as a side dish or on its own!

Nutrition

Calories: 462kcalCarbohydrates: 39gProtein: 28gFat: 21.7gSaturated Fat: 12.1gTrans Fat: 0.6gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 2152mgFiber: 1gSugar: 13g

Notes

• Use Leftover Chicken or Turkey: Chopped cooked meat can easily be mixed in for extra protein.
• Substitute with Different Cheeses: Don’t limit yourself to cheddar; try mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist.
• Broccoli Alternatives: If broccoli’s not your thing, cauliflower or green beans work quite nicely too.
• Add More Flavor: Toss in some cooked bacon or ham for additional savoriness.
• Make It Ahead of Time: This casserole is perfect for prep! Assemble it a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when needed.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Cracker Barrel Broccoli Rice Casserole is a cherished dish that brings warmth to the table, nurturing both body and soul. Its creamy consistency and cheesy goodness are like a comfort blanket that hugs you from the inside out. 

With simple ingredients and steps, you can whip up a meal that not only satiates hunger but also sparks joy.

So, whether you’re serving it for a family get-together or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, this casserole is sure to please everyone around the table. Enjoy every bite—and don’t forget to share it with others, because good food is always better when shared!

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