Go Back
At the heart of the Cheddar Ranch Broccoli Rice Bake is its remarkable flavor profile. The dish boasts a rich creaminess, courtesy of the melted cheddar cheese and the tangy sour cream, which come together to create a luscious base. What elevates this dish further is the zesty kick from the ranch dressing mix, which infuses every bite with a burst of flavor that is both familiar and exciting. The fresh broccoli florets contribute not only a vibrant color but also a wholesome taste that harmonizes beautifully with the other ingredients.

Cheddar Ranch Broccoli Rice Bake

Discover the joy of comfort food with the Cheddar Ranch Broccoli Rice Bake, a delightful casserole that's perfect for busy families and culinary enthusiasts. This recipe combines rich cheddar cheese, zesty ranch dressing, and wholesome broccoli into a creamy, satisfying dish topped with a crunchy layer of buttery crackers. Not only is it indulgent, but it also packs essential nutrients for a balanced meal. Easy to prepare, this bake is sure to become a beloved staple at your dinner table!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked brown rice

2 cups fresh broccoli florets (steamed until tender)

1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup sour cream

1 cup buttermilk

1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

1 cup crushed buttery crackers (such as Ritz)

2 tablespoons melted butter

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking.

    Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or a light coating of olive oil to prevent sticking.

      Mix the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, buttermilk, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.

        Combine the Ingredients: Gently fold in the cooked brown rice, steamed broccoli florets, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the creamy mixture. Ensure everything is coated evenly without crushing the broccoli.

          Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to create a uniform layer.

            Add the Cracker Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter until all the crumbs are evenly coated. Evenly distribute the cracker mixture over the broccoli rice mixture in the baking dish.

              Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the cracker topping to create a cheesy crust.

                Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden, bubbly, and deliciously aromatic.

                  Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Just before serving, top with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

                    Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6-8

                      - Presentation Tips: For an inviting presentation, serve the Cheddar Ranch Broccoli Rice Bake directly in the dish at the table. Use a spatula to scoop out servings, ensuring each portion showcases the layers of cheese, broccoli, and crispy topping. Optionally, add a sprinkle of additional parsley over each serving for a pop of freshness.