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Simple Stovetop Cheesy Rice: A Quick Comfort Side Dish

A serving of creamy cheesy rice topped with melted shredded cheddar cheese on a white plate.

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This easy cheesy rice recipe delivers creamy, comforting flavor using simple ingredients on the stovetop in under 30 minutes. It is the best cheesy rice recipe for a quick side dish.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic powder and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add the uncooked rice to the saucepan and stir it constantly for about 1 minute to toast it lightly.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
  6. Uncover the rice and gently fluff it with a fork.
  7. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese melts and the rice becomes creamy.
  8. Serve this quick cheesy rice immediately as a comforting side dish.

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, you can substitute 1/4 cup of the cheddar cheese with 2 ounces of softened cream cheese.
  • This recipe pairs well with chicken or steak dinners.
  • You can add 1 cup of frozen broccoli florets during the last 5 minutes of simmering for a vegetable addition.

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