Cheesy Rice So Good It Will Steal the Spotlight
Discoverthe ultimate cheesy rice recipe—creamy, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect asa side dish or main course that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Before diving into this creamy cheesy delight, let’s gather the essentials. These simple, pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both rich and satisfying.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice white, jasmine, or basmati for the best texture
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend for extra creaminess
- ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream for a velvety, smooth finish
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter adds richness and enhances the cheesy flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh minced garlic for deeper flavor
- ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper for a subtle kick
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan – Adds a nutty salty depth.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or cayenne – For a touch of heat.
- Chopped green onions or fresh parsley – Brightens up the dish.
- ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth – For a looser silkier consistency.
- Crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms – A delicious upgrade!
Ingredient Tips:
- ✔ Use freshly grated cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that prevent melting smoothly.
- ✔ Choose the right rice – Long-grain rice stays fluffy while short-grain rice creates a stickier, richer texture.
- ✔ For extra creaminess – A splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese works wonders.
Instructions
How to Make Cheesy Rice
- Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s bring this creamy, cheesy rice to life. This recipe is quick, easy, and made in one pot, so you’ll have a delicious side dish in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Melt the Butter
- o In a medium saucepan or skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
- o If using fresh garlic, sauté it for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Warm the Milk
- o Pour in the whole milk or heavy cream and stir to combine.
- o Reduce heat to low to prevent scorching while keeping the mixture warm.
Stir in the Cooked Rice
- o Add the cooked rice and mix well, ensuring each grain is coated with the creamy base.
- o If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or more milk to loosen it up.
Melt the Cheese
- o Gradually sprinkle in the shredded cheese, stirring continuously to help it melt smoothly.
- o For an extra cheesy finish, mix in Parmesan or mozzarella along with the cheddar.
Season to Taste
- o Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- o If you like a bit of heat, stir in paprika or cayenne pepper.
Finish and Serve
- o Once the cheese is fully melted and the rice is creamy, remove from heat.
- o Garnish with chopped green onions, parsley, or crispy bacon bits for a finishing touch.
Quick Tips for Perfect Cheesy Rice:
- ✔ Use low heat when melting cheese – This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- ✔ Add cheese gradually – Stirring it in small batches helps it incorporate evenly.
- ✔ Customize your flavors – Try mixing cheeses like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gouda for a richer taste.
- ✔ For extra indulgence – A spoonful of cream cheese can make the dish even more velvety.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Calcium: 15% of daily value
- Iron: 4% of daily value