Craving a comfort food that's both quick and irresistibly cheesy? Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight dinner into a mouthwatering experience with our Cheesy Rice with Broccoli! This simple yet delectable dish combines the creamy richness of melted cheddar with perfectly cooked rice and tender steamed broccoli. In just 30 minutes, you'll create a crowd-pleasing meal that's not only delicious but also packed with nutritious goodness. Whether you're a busy parent, a college student, or just someone who loves easy, satisfying meals, this recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch, which helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for approximately 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender.
- While the rice is cooking, prepare the broccoli by washing the florets and cutting them into bite-sized pieces if necessary.
- During the last 5 minutes of rice cooking, add the broccoli florets on top of the rice, allowing them to steam gently without stirring.
- Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 3-4 minutes to allow the broccoli to finish steaming and the rice to rest.
- Fluff the rice and broccoli mixture with a fork, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Cover the pan again for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely, creating a creamy and delicious texture.
- Season with salt to taste, gently stirring to distribute the melted cheese and ensure even seasoning.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- • For the fluffiest rice, always rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent clumping. • Use a tight-fitting lid when cooking rice to ensure even steaming and perfect texture. • Add broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking to maintain its vibrant green color and crisp-tender texture. • Choose a high-quality sharp cheddar cheese for maximum flavor impact. • Let the dish rest for a few minutes after adding cheese to allow for even melting and optimal creaminess. • For extra nutrition, consider using brown rice or adding additional vegetables like diced carrots or peas. • If you prefer a spicier version, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
