If you’re looking for a delicious, one-pan meal that’s cheesy, creamy, and loaded with flavor, this Cheesy Rice and Broccoli recipe is perfect for you! It’s a quick and easy dinner, made with simple ingredients, and requires minimal cleanup.
Whether you serve it as a hearty vegetarian meal or pair it with grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Let’s get started!
Ingredients Required
Here’s what you’ll need to make this cheesy, creamy rice dish:
For the Rice and Broccoli:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
- 2 cups fresh or frozen broccoli florets
For the Cheesy Sauce:
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup milk (or heavy cream)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Extra shredded cheese on top
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large skillet or pan with a lid
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Garlic and Toast the Rice
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the uncooked rice and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 2: Cook the Rice and Broccoli
- Pour in the vegetable broth, and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pan with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let the rice cook for 10 minutes.
- After 10 minutes, add the broccoli on top of the rice, cover again, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the rice is tender and the broccoli is cooked.
Step 3: Make It Cheesy!
- Once the rice and broccoli are cooked, remove the pan from heat.
- Stir in the milk (or heavy cream), shredded cheddar, and parmesan cheese until everything is melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Sprinkle with extra cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot as a standalone meal or alongside grilled chicken, salmon, or sausage.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Rice and Broccoli
- Use freshly shredded cheese – It melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli – Add it towards the end of cooking so it stays bright and tender-crisp.
- Want a creamier texture? Add an extra ¼ cup of milk or heavy cream for extra richness.
- Use leftover rice – If you already have cooked rice, simply add it in with the broccoli and stir in the cheese at the end.
Variations of the Recipe
1. Chicken and Cheesy Rice
- Add cooked shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken for a heartier meal.
2. Spicy Cheesy Rice and Broccoli
- Stir in ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
3. Bacon and Cheese Rice
- Fry some chopped bacon before adding the rice for a smoky, crispy addition.
4. Vegan Cheesy Rice and Broccoli
- Use dairy-free cheese and almond or coconut milk instead of regular milk.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy rice and broccoli dish is perfect on its own but pairs well with:
- Grilled Chicken – A simple grilled chicken breast makes it a full meal.
- Roasted Vegetables – Serve with roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts for extra nutrition.
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or broth and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until hot.
Freezing:
- While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze it in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Final Thoughts
One-Pan Cheesy Rice and Broccoli is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor! It’s a simple weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Give this easy recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! 🍽️
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! However, brown rice takes longer to cook, so increase the broth and cooking time to about 40 minutes.
2. What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar cheese is the best choice, but you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or gouda.
3. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Sauté the garlic, then add rice, broth, and seasoning. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes, then do a quick release. Stir in the broccoli and cheese at the end.
4. Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Add grilled chicken, shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a protein boost.
5. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to stir frequently while toasting the rice, and use a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned skillet.
