Cheesy Rice is a creamy, comforting side dish that’s packed with flavor. Tender rice is combined with melted cheese to create a dish that’s rich, satisfying, and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a simple side for weeknight dinners or something to serve at a holiday meal, this cheesy rice recipe is sure to please everyone. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can make a side dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and the perfect complement to almost any meal.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or your preferred variety)
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Cook the rice:
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Stir in the rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Make the cheesy sauce:
- Melt the butter: In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the milk (or heavy cream) and bring it to a simmer.
- Add the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the sauce: Season with salt and pepper to taste, and adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed for a creamier sauce.
Combine and serve:
- Combine the rice and cheese: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and then pour the cheesy sauce over the rice, stirring to combine.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes:
- Rice Variations: You can use brown rice or other types of rice for a different texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the rice type.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Add-ins: For extra flavor, consider adding cooked vegetables like peas, corn, or spinach to the rice, or stir in cooked chicken for a one-pot meal.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to bring back the creamy texture.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Rice is a simple, comforting dish that pairs perfectly with almost any meal. With its creamy, cheesy texture and easy preparation, it’s a side dish everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re serving it alongside chicken, steak, or vegetables, this cheesy rice recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try it today for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying addition to your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Cheesy Rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make this cheesy rice ahead of time. You can cook the rice and prepare the cheese sauce separately, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the rice and cheese sauce separately, adding a splash of milk to each to restore their creamy texture. Combine the rice and sauce just before serving.
What are some good substitutions for the ingredients in this Cheesy Rice recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap long-grain white rice for brown rice, adjusting the cooking time to about 45-50 minutes. For the cheese, try mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of your favorites; the flavor will change, but the creaminess will remain. You can also substitute the water for vegetable broth for a richer flavor, or use heavy cream instead of milk for a more decadent sauce.
How do I know when the rice is perfectly cooked in this recipe?
The rice is perfectly cooked when it’s tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. Visually, the grains should be plump and slightly translucent. The cooking time for white rice is approximately 18-20 minutes, but it’s best to check the rice by tasting it. It should be soft, not crunchy. The texture should be consistent throughout the pot.
Can I double or triple this Cheesy Rice recipe to serve a larger crowd?
Yes, you can easily scale this recipe up. When doubling, use a larger saucepan to cook the rice and cheese sauce. Be mindful that the cooking time might slightly increase depending on the size of your pan. For tripling, consider cooking the rice in two separate batches or using a very large pot. Adjust the amount of salt and pepper to taste, and stir frequently to prevent sticking.
What are the nutritional benefits of this Cheesy Rice recipe?
This Cheesy Rice provides carbohydrates from the rice, offering energy for the body. The cheese contributes calcium for bone health and protein for muscle building. Milk or cream adds additional calcium and fat. While this dish is a comfort food, consider adding vegetables like peas or spinach to boost the vitamin and fiber content, creating a more balanced meal.
Cheesy Rice – Creamy, Flavorful, and Perfectly Cheesy
This Cheesy Rice recipe is a simple yet delicious dish that combines creamy cheese with perfectly cooked rice for a quick side dish option.
Prep
: 10
Total
: 25 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups white rice uncooked
- 3 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil. Add the rice and salt, then cover and reduce the heat to low.
- Cook the rice for about 18-20 minutes until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Remove from heat, add butter and shredded cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the rice is creamy.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or paprika.
