This creamy, cheesy rice is the ultimate comfort food made simple and satisfying.
Packed with tender broccoli and protein-rich cheddar, it delivers a healthy boost without sacrificing flavor.
Quick to prepare in just one pot, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
With fiber from vegetables, good fats from cheese and butter, and a wholesome base of long-grain rice, it’s a nutritious, crowd-pleasing dish.
30-Minute Protein-Packed Cheesy Rice
Equipment
- 1 medium saucepan
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 fork for fluffing
- 1 stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice rinsed
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 cup frozen broccoli thawed and chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: splash of milk or half-and-half for creaminess
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice Thoroughly: Begin by placing your long-grain rice in a fine-mesh strainer or a medium bowl. Rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs clear. This important step removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky or clumping together. Take your time and gently swirl the rice with your fingers to ensure each grain is cleaned. Once rinsed, set the rice aside to drain.
- Bring Broth to a Gentle Boil: In a medium saucepan, pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth. Place the pan over medium-high heat and bring the liquid to a gentle boil. Stir occasionally to prevent any sticking at the bottom. Using chicken broth instead of water infuses the rice with a rich, savory flavor from the start, giving your dish a deeper taste profile.
- Add Rice and Simmer: Once the broth reaches a boil, stir in the rinsed rice. Reduce the heat immediately to low, allowing the rice to cook gently. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam, which helps the rice cook evenly. Let the rice simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, avoid lifting the lid too often, as steam is essential for tender, fluffy rice. Check occasionally near the end to ensure the broth is mostly absorbed and the rice grains are tender.
- Fluff the Rice: After the rice has absorbed most of the liquid and is fully tender, remove the lid and use a fork to gently fluff the rice. This separates the grains without crushing them, giving you a light, airy texture. Fluffing also helps prepare the rice to better incorporate the butter, cheese, and broccoli in the next steps.
- Incorporate Butter and Garlic: Add 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder directly to the hot, fluffy rice. Stir thoroughly, ensuring that the butter is evenly distributed and the garlic flavor lightly coats every grain. This step enhances the richness and aroma of the rice, laying the foundation for a creamy, savory dish.
- Fold in Broccoli: Gently fold in 1 cup of thawed and chopped broccoli. Make sure each piece is evenly mixed into the rice. Cover the pan again for 2–3 minutes on low heat, allowing the broccoli to warm through while retaining its bright green color and slight crunch. This step ensures the vegetables remain fresh-tasting and nutrient-rich.
- Melt in the Cheese: Gradually stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese while the rice is still warm. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted, creating a creamy, velvety coating over the rice and broccoli. For an extra creamy consistency, add a splash of milk or half-and-half at this stage, stirring gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve Immediately: Once the cheese has melted and everything is evenly mixed, transfer the rice to a serving dish or serve directly from the saucepan. Garnish with extra cheddar, a sprinkle of black pepper, or fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this rich, creamy, and satisfying one-pot meal hot, either as a side dish or a hearty main.
Notes
- Always rinse your long-grain rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and ensure fluffy, separate grains.
- Frozen broccoli works perfectly for this recipe; just be sure to thaw and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- Freshly grated cheddar melts more evenly than pre-shredded cheese, giving the rice a creamier, smoother texture.
- Adjust the creaminess by adding a splash of milk or half-and-half, depending on your preference.
- You can swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to make this recipe fully vegetarian.
Chef’s Secrets for Perfect Rice
Achieving creamy, flavorful cheesy rice starts with attention to detail.
Always rinse the rice and simmer it gently, keeping the lid on to trap steam.
Use high-quality, sharp cheddar for a rich, full-bodied flavor, and melt it slowly into the rice rather than adding it all at once.
Timing is key—add the broccoli near the end to preserve its vibrant color and tender-crisp texture.
For an extra layer of flavor, lightly toast the rice in butter for a minute before adding the broth.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
This cheesy rice pairs beautifully with a variety of mains.
Serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or a hearty vegetable stew for a comforting weeknight dinner.
It also works well as a filling for stuffed peppers or as a side to a fresh salad.
Garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or a pinch of paprika to add a touch of color and extra flavor.
Leftovers can even be used in a cheesy rice casserole topped with breadcrumbs and baked until golden.
Storage Tips for Best Freshness
Allow the rice to cool completely before storing.
Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
This rice also freezes well for up to 2 months.
When freezing, portion it into meal-sized containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Avoid microwaving straight from frozen, as it can lead to uneven heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes! Cheddar is ideal for its creamy texture and flavor, but you can substitute Monterey Jack, Gouda, or mozzarella for a different taste profile.
Just remember that milder cheeses may require a pinch of extra salt for seasoning.
2. Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth, use plant-based butter, and swap the cheddar for a vegan cheese alternative. The result will still be creamy and satisfying.
3. Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?
Yes, but note that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and slightly more liquid. Follow the package instructions for cooking, then incorporate the butter, cheese, and broccoli as directed.
4. How can I make this recipe extra creamy?
For a richer, creamier texture, add a splash of milk, half-and-half, or even a dollop of sour cream when stirring in the cheese. Stir slowly to ensure it blends smoothly into the rice.
5. Can I prep this recipe in advance for meal prep?
Definitely! Cook the rice and broccoli fully, then store in individual containers. Add cheese fresh when reheating for the best creamy texture. This makes it ideal for quick lunches or weeknight dinners.
