Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's as comforting as it is delicious? Look no further than this mouthwatering "Rice with Cheese and Onions" recipe! In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, cheesy delight that’s perfect as a side or a light main course. Imagine the savory aroma of sautéed onions mingling with melted cheese and fluffy rice—it's a feast for the senses that will have your family asking for seconds! Dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe and discover how easy it is to create a dish that will impress everyone at the table!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 2 cups water or broth
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the rinsed rice to the pan with the sautéed onions. Stir to coat the rice with butter and toast slightly for 1-2 minutes, which will enhance the flavor.
- Pour in the water or broth, and add a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 12-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
- Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the steam to finish cooking the rice.
- Uncover and fluff the rice with a fork. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the hot rice and gently stir to allow the cheese to melt throughout.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot as a side dish or light main course, garnishing with extra cheese if desired.
Tips
- Rinse the Rice: Always rinse your rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming sticky and ensures a fluffy texture.
- Sauté the Onions: Take your time when sautéing the onions. Allow them to become translucent and slightly golden to enhance their natural sweetness, which adds depth to the dish.
- Toast the Rice: Toasting the rinsed rice for 1-2 minutes in the butter before adding the liquid can enhance its flavor and give it a nice nutty aroma.
- Use Broth for Extra Flavor: For a richer taste, substitute water with chicken or vegetable broth. This small change can elevate the overall flavor profile of the dish.
- Let It Steam: After cooking, let the rice sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. This step allows the steam to finish cooking the rice perfectly and helps achieve that ideal fluffy texture.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend can add unique flavors to your dish.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of extra cheese or fresh herbs on top before serving not only enhances the presentation but also adds a burst of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
