Vegetable Rice Casserole Bake Comforting rice, broccoli, peas, and carrots in a cheesy casserole, perfect for gatherings and weeknight meal

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Vegetable Rice Casserole Bake: A Cozy, Cheesy Comfort Meal

There’s something inherently comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole. The Vegetable Rice Casserole Bake is one of those dishes that brings both nostalgia and simplicity to the table. Combining fluffy rice, tender broccoli, sweet peas, and soft carrots in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even casual gatherings. What makes it even better? It’s easy to prepare, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. Here’s how to make it from scratch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
1 cup broccoli florets (steamed or lightly blanched)
1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
1 cup diced carrots (cooked until tender)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
1 cup cream or milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour (for thickening)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: ½ teaspoon paprika or nutmeg for extra flavor

Step-by-Step Method

1. Prep the Vegetables

Start by preparing your vegetables. If using fresh broccoli and peas, lightly steam them so they retain their bright color and crunch. Dice the carrots into small, uniform pieces and cook until tender. Set all the vegetables aside. This ensures that everything cooks evenly in the casserole without becoming mushy.

2. Cook the Aromatics

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The aromatics form the flavor base of your casserole, so don’t rush this step.

3. Make the Cheese Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onion and garlic, stirring constantly to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk or cream until smooth and slightly thickened. Reduce the heat to low and add 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese, stirring until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices. Taste the sauce — it should be rich, creamy, and slightly cheesy.