Slow Cooker Velveeta Broccoli Rice Casserole Recipe

There’s something special about a warm, cheesy casserole that fills the house with an irresistible aroma. When it comes to effortless comfort food, Velveeta Broccoli Rice Casserole is a classic. This dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect side or even a standalone meal. And what’s better? Cooking it in a slow cooker makes everything easier—no need to hover over a stovetop or worry about overcooking.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through making the perfect broccoli rice casserole in a slow cooker, along with personal insights, cooking tips, and FAQs to ensure a flawless dish every time.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Recipe

• Set It and Forget It – No need to stand by the stove; just add the ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic.
• Creamy and Cheesy – Velveeta cheese melts into a smooth, rich sauce that coats every bite.
• Perfect for Gatherings – This casserole is a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for potlucks, family dinners, and holidays.
• Vegetable-Packed – Even picky eaters will love the cheesy goodness with tender broccoli mixed in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this Velveeta Broccoli Rice Casserole, gather the following ingredients:

• 2 cups uncooked white rice
• 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or substitute with another can of cream of mushroom for a vegetarian version)
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 lb Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker

Spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray or lightly coat it with butter. This prevents the casserole from sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Start by adding the uncooked rice, broccoli florets, cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups, and broth to the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Add the Velveeta Cheese

Cut the Velveeta cheese into small cubes and evenly distribute them over the mixture. As it melts, it will create that signature creamy texture.

Step 4: Season and Stir

Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir gently to incorporate the seasoning.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Casserole

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.

Step 6: Add Milk and Cheddar Cheese

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the milk to enhance the creaminess. If you’re adding shredded cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness, sprinkle it on top and let it melt.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once the rice is tender and the cheese is fully melted, give everything a final stir. Serve warm and enjoy this Velveeta Broccoli Rice Casserole as a delicious side dish or a hearty main course.

Tips for the Best Broccoli Rice Casserole in a Slow Cooker

• Use Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: If using frozen broccoli, there’s no need to thaw—just toss it in.
• Avoid Overcooking: Check after the minimum cooking time to ensure the rice doesn’t turn mushy.
• Customize the Texture: If you like a thinner consistency, add more milk or broth toward the end of cooking.
• Enhance the Flavor: A dash of paprika or a sprinkle of crispy fried onions on top adds a nice touch.

Serving Suggestions

This cheesy casserole pairs well with:

• Grilled or Baked Tofu – For a vegetarian-friendly protein boost.
• Garlic Bread or Dinner Rolls – Perfect for scooping up every cheesy bite.
• Crisp Green Salad – Balances the richness of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals or reheat in a saucepan with a splash of milk for a creamy consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Velveeta Broccoli Rice Casserole in the slow cooker is a true comfort food winner. It’s cheesy, easy to prepare, and perfect for feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a rich, creamy casserole ready to impress.

Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out! Do you have any favorite add-ins? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

FAQs About Velveeta Broccoli Rice Casserole

1. Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?

Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. Add an extra hour to the cooking time and check for tenderness before serving.

2. What Can I Use Instead of Velveeta Cheese?

You can substitute with shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese. For a creamy texture, mix in some cream cheese.

3. Can I Make This Casserole on the Stovetop Instead?

Absolutely! Cook the rice separately, then mix all ingredients in a large pot over medium heat until everything is melted and combined.

4. How Do I Prevent the Rice from Getting Mushy?

Avoid over-stirring and check the casserole after the minimum cooking time. If using pre-cooked rice, reduce the liquid by half.

5. Can I Add Protein to This Recipe?

Yes! Shredded chicken, crumbled tofu, or cooked chickpeas make great protein additions.

Mason Williams

A seasoned chef with over 10 years of experience in New York. I passionately share my journey and healthy, flavorful recipes online.