Day 12 - Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

I found this recipe from What's Cookin, Chicago?.  We have lots of broccoli left in the garden that needs to be eaten so it was a perfect fit.

(Need to upload a picture still)

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole


4 cups leftover cooked rice
1 1/2 pounds broccoli florets, chopped
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 onion, chopped
2 slices bacon, diced (I didn't have any bacon on hand so I just used dried bacon bits)
1/4 cup all purpose flour
1 cup low sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese


Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and place the rice in a baking dish and set aside.

Combine the broccoli and 1/4 cup water in a microwave safe bowl, cover and microwave for 3-5 minutes until tender. Drain broccoli and set aside.

Melt the butter in a skillet over medium high heat. Add onions and bacon, cooking until they begin to brown. Stir in flour and cook until thoroughly incorporated. Whisk in broth and cream, simmering until thickened. Add the mustard, cheese and the broccoli into the sauce in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer this broccoli cheese mixture to the prepared baking dish and pour over the rice.

Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to warm through and enjoy.

Verdict:
Chad was in a hurry to leave for an appointment but he gobbled down his helping and had seconds.    It took the kids a while but they did finish.  They were picking out and eating all the broccoli first.  I thought it was delicious.