Cheddar and Broccoli Rice Recipe

Introduction

This Cheddar and Broccoli Rice is a comforting, flavorful side dish that combines creamy cheese with tender broccoli and fluffy rice. It’s simple to make and perfect for pairing with your favorite main courses or enjoying on its own.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1/3 cup liquid (water, broth, or milk; milk adds a creamier flavor)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 1/2 cups chopped broccoli
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant and softened.
2. Step 2: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil in the same saucepan.
3. Step 3: Add the jasmine rice, cover the pan, and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice simmer, stirring occasionally, for 12 minutes.
4. Step 4: Remove the cover and stir the rice well. Add butter, your choice of 1/3 cup liquid, salt, and pepper. Cover again and let it simmer for an additional 3 minutes.
5. Step 5: Stir in the chopped broccoli. Continue cooking on low heat for 4 to 5 minutes, or until the broccoli reaches your preferred tenderness.
6. Step 6: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian option, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
• Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Swap out cheddar for a sharper or milder cheese depending on your taste preferences.
• Add cooked chicken or bacon bits for extra protein and flavor.

Storage

Store leftover Cheddar and Broccoli Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

Yes, but cooking times and liquid amounts may vary. Jasmine rice works well due to its texture and fragrance, but long-grain white rice or basmati can be good alternatives.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use a dairy-free butter substitute and a plant-based cheese or omit the cheese altogether for a dairy-free version.

Cheddar and Broccoli Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 186 reviews

This Cheddar and Broccoli Rice recipe is a creamy, cheesy side dish combining tender jasmine rice with sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh broccoli. Cooked in chicken broth and enriched with butter and cheddar cheese, this comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a flavorful accompaniment to your favorite protein.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1/3 cup liquid (water, broth, or milk; milk preferred for creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1 1/2 cups chopped broccoli
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté for 2 minutes while stirring occasionally to soften the aromatics without browning.
2. Add Broth and Boil: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil, preparing the base for cooking the rice.
3. Cook Rice: Stir in the jasmine rice, cover the saucepan, and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice simmer for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
4. Add Butter and Seasonings: Remove the cover, stir the rice, then add the butter, 1/3 cup of your chosen liquid (water, broth, or milk), salt, and pepper. Cover again and simmer for an additional 3 minutes to enrich the flavor and texture.
5. Cook Broccoli: Stir in the chopped broccoli, cover, and continue cooking on low for 4-5 minutes, or until the broccoli reaches your preferred tenderness.
6. Incorporate Cheese and Serve: Finally, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined. Serve the dish hot as a delicious side or light main course.

Notes

• Using milk instead of water or broth for the added liquid creates a creamier texture and richer flavor.
• You can substitute broccoli with other vegetables like cauliflower or green beans depending on preference.
• For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if your broth is already salted.
• This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or as a hearty vegetarian meal on its own.

Keywords: cheddar broccoli rice, cheesy broccoli rice, easy rice side dish, comfort food, quick dinner side