Cheesy Rice Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Rice is a comforting and flavorful side dish that’s perfect for pairing with a variety of meals. Creamy, rich, and packed with sharp cheddar, this recipe transforms simple rice into a crowd-pleasing delight.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long grain white rice (not instant or brown)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 small onion (small diced)
• 8 ounces chicken broth
• 8 ounces whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (grated)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve under cold water to remove surface starches. This helps the rice cook fluffy with separate grains.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook until it starts to lightly brown around the edges, about 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Step 3: Add the rinsed rice, chicken broth, whole milk, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir to combine.
4. Step 4: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low, just above off.
5. Step 5: Cook the rice until tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, typically 18-20 minutes, but check your rice package for exact timing. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to prevent drying out the rice.
6. Step 6: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese gently and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian option, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth without sacrificing flavor.
• Add fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives for a bright finish.
• Use smoked paprika for a subtle smoky twist.
• Try mixing in cooked bacon bits for added texture and flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid, so this recipe will need adjustments. It’s best to follow the rice package instructions and increase cooking time accordingly.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

Sharp cheddar is ideal for its bold flavor and melting quality, but you can also use Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, or even a mild mozzarella for a different taste and texture.

Cheesy Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 55 reviews

This Cheesy Rice recipe combines tender long grain white rice cooked in a flavorful mixture of chicken broth and milk, enriched with sautéed onions, butter, and sharp cheddar cheese for a creamy, comforting side dish perfect for any meal.

• Author: Felix
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Rice Base

• 1 cup long grain white rice (not instant or brown)
• 8 ounces chicken broth
• 8 ounces whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

Vegetables and Dairy

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 small onion (small diced)
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese (grated)

Instructions

1. Rinse the Rice: Add your rice to a fine mesh sieve and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove surface starches. This step is crucial to cook fluffy rice with separate grains and avoid gumminess.
2. Sauté Onion: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and cook until it starts to lightly brown around the edges, about 3 to 4 minutes, releasing its sweetness and aroma.
3. Add Ingredients and Simmer: Add the rinsed rice, chicken broth, whole milk, paprika, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir well to combine all ingredients, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook Covered on Low Heat: Once simmering, cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low (almost off). Refer to your rice package for exact cooking times—typically about 18 to 20 minutes for white rice. Avoid lifting the lid during this time to keep steam inside for proper cooking.
5. Check for Doneness: After the cooking time, check that the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. The grains should be fluffy and not gummy.
6. Add Cheese and Fluff: Remove the pan from heat. Quickly add the grated sharp cheddar cheese and gently stir to combine. Fluff the cheesy rice with a fork to incorporate the cheese evenly, then serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Notes

• Rinsing rice is key to prevent sticky, gummy textures. Do not skip this step.
• Use whole milk for creaminess; milk alternatives may change texture and flavor.
• Sharp cheddar delivers a rich, tangy flavor; feel free to use your favorite cheese blend.
• Keep the lid on while cooking to trap steam and ensure fluffy rice.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated with a splash of milk.

Keywords: cheesy rice, creamy rice, side dish, comfort food, cheddar cheese rice, stovetop rice recipe