Easy Broccoli Cheese Rice
A comforting and delicious dish featuring creamy cheese and vibrant broccoli, perfect for weeknight meals or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
Grains
- 1 cup uncooked rice white or brown works well; try jasmine for a fragrant twist
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets swap spinach with kale for a stronger flavor
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese feel free to mix and match with mozzarella for a gooey texture
Liquid
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth homemade stock is always a tasty option
Fats
- 2 tablespoons butter because everything is better with butter, right?
Spices
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder add fresh minced garlic for a vibrant kick
- to taste Salt
- to taste pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by rinsing your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
- In a medium saucepan, combine rice and broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender (typically about 18-20 minutes).
- While the rice cooks, bring a separate pot of water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for about 2-3 minutes until they are vibrant green and just tender. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop the cooking process!
Combining Flavors
- Once the rice is ready, remove it from heat and stir in the butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then, add in the blanched broccoli and half of the shredded cheese.
- Gently mix until the broccoli is evenly distributed and the cheese begins to melt. This should create a beautiful, creamy texture.
Serving
- Transfer the rice to a serving dish. Top with the remaining cheese and pop it under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Notes
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add proteins, fresh herbs, or other vegetables. Leftovers can be stored for up to three days in an airtight container in the fridge, or frozen for up to two months. Toast your spices to enhance the flavor, and use quality cheese for the best results.