Creamy Cheesy Rice: Comfort Food for Easy Meals Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Cheesy Rice is a comforting and easy-to-make side dish that combines tender rice with rich cheddar cheese and subtle spices. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a simple, satisfying meal component.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 8 ounces chicken broth
• 8 ounces whole milk
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ small onion, diced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve under cold water until the water runs clear, then set aside to drain completely.
2. Step 2: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
3. Step 3: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan with the onions. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, then sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Step 4: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the saucepan, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
6. Step 6: Fluff the cheesy rice gently with a fork and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
• Substitute heavy cream for milk to make the dish extra creamy.
• Try smoked paprika to add a deeper flavor.
• Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or a cheese blend for a different taste profile.
• Replace fresh onion with 2 tablespoons onion powder if fresh is unavailable.

Storage

Store leftover creamy cheesy rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess, or microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown or instant rice instead of long grain white rice?

For the best texture and creaminess, stick with long grain white rice. Brown or instant rice requires different cooking times and may affect the final dish’s consistency.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil, use a dairy-free milk alternative like almond or oat milk, and choose a dairy-free cheese substitute to keep it creamy and flavorful.

Creamy Cheesy Rice: Comfort Food for Easy Meals Recipe

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This creamy cheesy rice is a comforting and easy-to-make side dish that combines tender long grain rice with savory sautéed onions, butter, and sharp cheddar cheese. Its rich, creamy texture and warm spices make it perfect for quick family meals or to accompany your favorite main dishes.

• Author: luca
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 8 ounces chicken broth
• 8 ounces whole milk
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ small onion, diced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated

Instructions

1. Rinse the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of long grain white rice in a fine mesh sieve under cold running water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky. Set the sieve aside to drain completely.
2. Sauté Onions: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the diced ½ small onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
3. Add Rice and Liquids: Add the drained rice to the saucepan with the sautéed onions. Pour in 8 ounces of chicken broth and 8 ounces of whole milk. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of paprika, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of pepper. Stir everything together to combine evenly.
4. Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer undisturbed for 18-20 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and become tender.
5. Check and Add Cheese: After 18-20 minutes, check if the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is cooked through. Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in 4 ounces of grated sharp cheddar cheese. Mix gently until the cheese melts fully into the creamy rice.
6. Fluff and Serve: Using a fork, fluff the cheesy rice gently to separate the grains and incorporate the melted cheese evenly. Serve warm as a delicious side dish to complement your meal.

Notes

• For a vegetarian version, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
• Heavy cream can replace whole milk for a richer and creamier texture.
• Use smoked paprika instead of regular for a deeper smoky flavor.
• Olive oil can be used instead of butter for a lighter option.
• If fresh onion is unavailable, 2 tablespoons of onion powder can be used instead.
• Adjust salt and pepper to taste or dietary requirements.

Keywords: creamy cheesy rice, easy rice recipe, comfort food, cheesy side dish, long grain rice, cheddar cheese rice