Irresistible Cheesy Broccoli Rice Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

The delightful aroma of cheesy broccoli rice wafts through the air, wrapping you in a warm hug of comfort. Each spoonful offers a creamy, cheesy goodness that makes your taste buds dance with joy, while the vibrant green of the broccoli adds a pop of color that’s as inviting as it is nutritious.

Remember the time when you tried to impress your friends with a fancy dinner but ended up serving instant ramen? Well, cheesy broccoli rice is your golden ticket to culinary glory. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, promising flavor-packed bites that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds and thirds.

I once made this cheesy broccoli rice for my family on a rainy day, and let me tell you, the smiles around the table were priceless.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli is key; choose bright green florets without yellowing for the best flavor.

• Long-Grain Rice: Opt for long-grain rice for fluffy grains that won’t stick together during cooking.

• Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a robust flavor. Aged cheese melts beautifully and adds richness.

• Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is great, but low-sodium store-bought works just fine too.

• Garlic Powder: Garlic powder enhances the dish’s depth without overpowering it; fresh garlic can be used if preferred.

• Onion Powder: For an extra layer of savory notes, onion powder makes this dish sing.

• Butter: Adds creaminess and richness to the final product; don’t skimp on this one!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those delicious flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Broccoli: First things first, wash your broccoli florets thoroughly under cold water. Cut them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and fit nicely into your mouth.

Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of long-grain rice with 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring it to a boil over medium heat before reducing it to low and covering it. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes until fluffy.

Add in Broccoli and Seasonings: After cooking the rice, stir in your lovely broccoli florets along with garlic powder and onion powder. Let them mingle on low heat for another 5-7 minutes until tender but still bright green.

Melt in the Cheese and Butter: Now comes the gooey part! Stir in about 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 2 tablespoons of butter until melted and creamy. The aroma will be heavenly!

Final Seasoning Touches: Taste your creation and sprinkle with salt and pepper according to your preference. Remember to stir well so every bite is bursting with flavor!

Serve It Up!: Transfer your cheesy broccoli rice into a serving bowl or directly onto plates. You might want to savor every bite yourself instead of sharing; I won’t tell anyone if you keep it all!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the rice first, then add steamed broccoli and cheese to combine flavors seamlessly. This method ensures that the cheese melts perfectly without clumping.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out broccoli for spinach or add in some cooked chicken for extra protein. Experimenting with spices can also elevate the flavor!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Sharing this dish with my family brought unexpected joy when my niece declared it “the best broccoli ever!” Her enthusiasm made all the effort worthwhile.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Is it possible to make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free cheese and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for a spicy kick.

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Cheesy Broccoli Rice

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Cheesy broccoli rice is a comforting and delicious dish that combines creamy cheddar cheese with vibrant broccoli. This easy recipe brings together fluffy long-grain rice, fresh broccoli florets, and rich flavors, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. In under 30 minutes, you can create a satisfying meal that even picky eaters will love!

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Ingredients

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• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegan option)
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Rinse broccoli florets under cold water and cut into bite-sized pieces.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until fluffy.
3. Stir in broccoli florets, garlic powder, and onion powder into the cooked rice. Cook on low for 5-7 minutes until broccoli is tender but bright green.
4. Add shredded cheddar cheese and butter to the mixture, stirring until melted and creamy.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 30mg