Cheesy Rice Recipe: Delicious, Quick, and Comforting in 20 Minutes
This Cheesy Rice Recipe is the perfect comfort food, combining creamy, gooey cheese with fluffy rice for a side dish that is both hearty and delicious. Whether you’re serving it as a standalone dish or alongside a main course, it’s sure to satisfy any cheese lover’s cravings. The simplicity of ingredients makes it easy to prepare, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of long-grain white rice
- 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
- ½ cup of heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon of onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a medium-sized baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is fully absorbed.
- While the rice is cooking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the heavy cream and stir until well combined. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and pour the cheese mixture over the rice. Stir to combine everything evenly, making sure all the rice is coated with the cheesy sauce. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the cheesy rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly and, if desired, sprinkle a little more cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
- Bake the cheesy rice for 10-12 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, broil it for an additional 2 minutes, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Notes
- Variations: Add cooked bacon or ham for a meatier version, or stir in sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli for extra vegetables.
- Storage: This cheesy rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cheeses, and vegetable broth to make this dish vegan-friendly.