Cheesy Rice is a creamy, comforting side dish that’s quick and easy to prepare. Made with tender rice, rich cheese, and a hint of butter, it’s the perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals or a satisfying dish on its own. Whether served alongside chicken, steak, or veggies, this cheesy goodness will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy, and packed with cheesy flavor.
- A simple side dish that pairs with almost any main course.
- Ready in under 30 minutes with just a few ingredients.
- Kid-friendly and loved by all ages.
- Customizable with add-ins like veggies or extra spices.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- White or brown rice (uncooked)
- Chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
- Butter
- Cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Milk or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Cook the Rice:
- In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed (about 15–20 minutes for white rice or 40–45 minutes for brown rice).
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the milk or heavy cream and heat gently. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
- Combine:
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the cheese sauce. Add Parmesan cheese if desired for extra depth of flavor. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve:
- Transfer the cheesy rice to a serving dish and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4–6
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20–25 minutes
Variations
- Veggie-Loaded Cheesy Rice: Stir in cooked broccoli, peas, or sautéed mushrooms for a nutritious twist.
- Mexican Cheesy Rice: Add diced jalapeños, taco seasoning, and a sprinkle of pepper jack cheese for a spicy version.
- Garlic Parmesan Rice: Sauté minced garlic in butter before adding the cheese sauce, and use Parmesan as the primary cheese.
- Protein Boost: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon for a hearty one-dish meal.
- Healthier Option: Use brown rice, low-fat milk, and reduced-fat cheese for a lighter version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use instant rice?
Yes, instant rice works well and reduces the cooking time. Prepare it according to package instructions and stir in the cheese sauce.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but you can mix in mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavors.
Can I use plant-based milk?
Yes, unsweetened almond or oat milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
How do I keep the cheese sauce from clumping?
Ensure the cheese is shredded and added gradually to the warm milk mixture, stirring constantly. Avoid overheating the sauce.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and cheese, this dish is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
What can I serve with cheesy rice?
This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, steak, roasted vegetables, or fish.
How can I make the dish creamier?
Use heavy cream instead of milk and increase the amount of cheese for extra creaminess.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just double all the ingredients, ensuring you use a larger pot to accommodate the rice.
Can I make this in a rice cooker?
Yes, cook the rice in a rice cooker as usual, then stir in the cheese sauce after the rice is cooked.
Conclusion
Cheesy Rice is a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as simple as it is delicious. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prepping. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy a side dish that’s guaranteed to impress. Make it tonight and savor the cheesy comfort!
PrintCheesy Rice
Cheesy Rice is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. Perfect as a side dish for weeknight dinners or a cozy main course, this dish pairs beautifully with chicken, beef, or roasted veggies. Simple to make, it’s a guaranteed family favorite.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or basmati)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup diced onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1/4 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
Optional Toppings
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Crumbled bacon
- Green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Cook Aromatics:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- Reduce heat to low. Add the milk and chicken or vegetable broth to the skillet. Stir to combine and heat gently.
- Gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth.
- Combine with Rice:
- Stir the cooked rice into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Add salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Mix well to combine.
- Serve:
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with optional toppings like parsley, bacon, or green onions. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked rice for the best texture, but leftover rice works well too.
- Feel free to customize the cheese—try Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or even Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
- Add steamed broccoli, peas, or diced chicken to make this a complete meal.