Broccoli, Cheese & Rice Casserole

Here's an easy and delicious recipe for Broccoli, Cheese and Rice Casserole that can be made in one skillet. By cooking the casserole in a skillet, the flavors and textures stay fresh, avoiding the mushy broccoli that can come from baking in a dish. This dish is perfect as a side with baked chicken for a healthy dinner that can be prepared in just 30 minutes. It's also a great addition to your Thanksgiving spread or a party buffet.

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion 
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme 
• 2 (8.8 ounce) packages microwavable brown rice or 3 1/2 cups cooked brown rice 
• 1 cup unsalted chicken broth 
• ½ cup sour cream 
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 
• ½ teaspoon salt 
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper 
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch 
• 3 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-size pieces 
• 1 cup shredded extra-sharp Cheddar cheese

Directions:

To begin, preheat the broiler and position a rack 6 to 8 inches from the heat source. Melt butter in a large high-sided broilerproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and onion and cook until browned and tender. Add garlic and thyme and cook until fragrant. Stir in rice, making sure to coat and break up clumps.

Next, whisk together broth, sour cream, mayonnaise, mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth. Whisk in cornstarch. Add the mixture to the skillet and stir to combine. Stir in broccoli and let the mixture come to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook until the broccoli is bright green and tender. Remove from heat and sprinkle with cheese.

Finally, transfer the skillet to the oven and broil until the cheese has melted. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious and healthy dish!