Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Rice: 5 Creamy Comfort Ideas

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Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Rice is a delightful dish that has become a staple in my kitchen for its creamy texture and comforting flavors. This irresistible casserole is not only a healthy comfort food but also highly customizable, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With broccoli and rice as its main ingredients and a delicious vegan cheese sauce, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings without the dairy!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Rice

This dish is packed with nutrition while being absolutely delicious. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

It’s a healthy vegan cheesy broccoli rice option that is low in calories.
Perfect for meal prep, this quick vegan cheesy broccoli rice recipe can be made ahead of time.
This plant-based cheesy broccoli rice is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
It’s full of flavor thanks to nutritional yeast, making it a great dairy-free cheesy broccoli rice.
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices.
This dish is kid-friendly and a great way to sneak in veggies!

Ingredients for Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Rice

Gather these items:

1 cup Brown Rice (Can substitute with white rice for quicker cooking.)
2 cups Broccoli (Cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.)
1 cup Potatoes (Use Yukon gold or russet for best results.)
1 medium Onion (Can be replaced with shallots for a milder flavor.)
1 medium Carrot (Omit if unavailable.)
1 cup Cashews (Soaked for at least 2 hours for creaminess.)
2 cloves Garlic (Roasted garlic can be used for a sweeter taste.)
2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard (Can be replaced with yellow mustard.)
1 cup Nutritional Yeast (Vital for cheesy flavor.)
to taste Salt
to taste Pepper

How to Make Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil and add 1 cup of brown rice. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 40-45 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
Step 2: In a separate large pot, bring water to a boil. Add diced onion, potatoes, and carrots, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
Step 3: In a high-powered blender, combine the cooked vegetables with about 1 cup of reserved cooking water, cashews, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and nutritional yeast. Blend until smooth.
Step 4: In the same skillet used for cooking rice, add cooked rice and chopped broccoli. Pour the blended cheese sauce over, stirring gently to coat.
Step 5: Place the skillet over medium heat and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Rice

Keep these in mind:

Soaking the cashews is crucial for achieving a creamy texture.
Experiment with different vegetables for added nutrition and flavor.
For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or jalapeños.
This dish can be made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Best Ways to Serve Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Rice

Here are a few serving suggestions:

Serve warm as a hearty main dish.
Pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Use it as a filling for wraps or stuffed peppers.

How to Store and Reheat Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Rice

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will last 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to regain its creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Rice

What is vegan cheesy broccoli rice?

This dish is a creamy casserole made with rice, broccoli, and a vegan cheese sauce, perfect for a comforting meal without dairy.

Can I make vegan cheesy broccoli rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It makes for a quick weeknight meal option!

How do I avoid common mistakes with vegan cheesy broccoli rice?

Ensure that you soak the cashews long enough for a smooth blend and don’t overcook the broccoli, keeping it bright and vibrant.

Variations of Vegan Cheesy Broccoli Rice You Can Try

For a twist on this recipe, consider trying:

Adding spinach or kale for added greens.
Incorporating different grains like quinoa for a quinoa broccoli rice.
Substituting sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for a sweeter flavor.

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Vegetable Soup or Gingerbread Tiramisu for a sweet treat!

With these tips and variations, you can enjoy a delightful and nutritious meal that everyone will love!