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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice Recipe

By: Author Anne Carter

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Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice is comfort food at its finest, blending wholesome ingredients into a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing.

As a busy mom always on the lookout for crowd-pleasing meals, I stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly hectic week, and it’s been a game-changer ever since.

The combination of tender rice, vibrant broccoli florets, and a velvety cheddar sauce creates a harmonious balance that even the pickiest eaters can’t resist.

I’ve lost count of how many times this dish has saved dinnertime at my house. Whether you’re looking for a cozy side dish or a vegetarian main, this recipe adapts beautifully to your needs.

So grab your pot, and let’s dive into a meal that’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!

Why I Love This Recipe?

  • It’s my go-to for transforming leftover rice into a brand new meal – talk about a kitchen lifesaver!
  • The creamy texture reminds me of risotto, but without all the stirring – perfect for busy weeknights.
  • I’ve found it’s an excellent way to use up those broccoli stems that often go to waste.
  • My kids actually ask for seconds of vegetables when I serve this – it’s that good.
  • The leftovers reheat beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.

What To Serve With Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice?

A beautifully served dish of creamy broccoli cheddar rice casserole, highlighting its cheesy and creamy texture, part of the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice Recipe.

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice Recipe

Creamy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a cheesy, vegetarian one-pot recipe that tastes similar to creamy risotto. This is a complete dinner in and of itself, thanks to the white rice and broccoli!
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Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 542kcal
Author: Anne Carter
Servings: 5

Equipment

  • Medium Saucepan
  • Cutting Board
  • Measuring Cups
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Cheese Grater
  • Colander

Ingredients

  • 3 cups broth chicken or vegetable
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 cups broccoli florets chopped pretty small
  • 1 cup white rice
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
  • Splash of half and half optional
  • Additional salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • In a medium saucepan, bring broth, olive oil, and salt to a boil.
    Broth boiling in a medium saucepan with white rice and chopped broccoli florets being added, part of the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice Recipe.
  • Stir in the white rice and broccoli, then bring it back to a boil.
    A wooden spoon stirring white rice and broccoli florets into boiling broth in a medium saucepan, as part of the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice Recipe.
  • Cover the saucepan, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
    A covered saucepan simmering white rice and broccoli in broth, showing the cooking process for the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice Recipe.
  • Once the rice is cooked and broccoli is tender, stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
    Shredded cheddar cheese being stirred into the cooked rice and broccoli mixture, enhancing the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice Recipe.
  • Add a splash of half-and-half for a creamier texture.
  • Taste and season with more salt and pepper if needed.
    A serving of creamy broccoli cheddar rice plated and ready to enjoy, showcasing the final presentation of the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice Recipe.

Nutrition

Calories: 542kcal | Carbohydrates: 66g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 11g | Cholesterol: 57mg | Sodium: 837mg | Potassium: 758mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 1360IU | Vitamin C: 119mg | Calcium: 437mg | Iron: 2.4mg

Tips For Making A Broccoli, Rice, And Cheese Casserole:

  1. Vegetarian Option: If you’re vegetarian or prefer a different flavor, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It adds a rich, flavorful base to the dish.
  2. Fresh or Frozen Broccoli: Fresh broccoli works great, but you can also use thawed and patted-dry frozen broccoli for convenience.
  3. Cheese Choices: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for its bold flavor, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda, Monterey jack, or even a blend for a unique twist.
  4. Creamier Texture: For an extra creamy casserole, mix in some half-and-half or heavy cream with the cheese.
  5. Seasoning: Taste as you go, and adjust salt and pepper to suit your preference. The cheese will add saltiness, so be mindful of how much you add.
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