This creamy, cheesy rice recipe is the perfect comforting side dish made with simple ingredients like cheddar cheese, butter, and broth. Easy, fast, and delicious.
cheese rice
If you love ultra-creamy comfort food, this cheesy rice dish is becoming your new classic. It’s quick, affordable, and full of rich cheddar flavor.
Whether served with chicken, steak, or grilled vegetables, this one-pot cheese rice brings restaurant-worthy flavor to your weeknight dinner.
Ingredients and Substitutes
The main ingredients for making cheese rice are: See recipe card for complete list.
Butter – You can replace salted butter with unsalted butter. Just omit the additional salt. Shallots – If you have them on hand, you can substitute them with yellow onions. Rice – Any long-grain white rice will do. You can also use brown rice, but it will take longer to cook than indicated. Soup – Chicken or vegetable broth adds flavor and richness. If using a low-sodium soup, you may need to add more salt after tasting. Cheese – Use freshly grated, melted cheese such as white cheddar, sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, mozzarella, or pepper jack. Although grated from a block melts the smoothest, pre-shredded cheese can create a grainy texture.
Step-by-step instructions with photos
Step 1. Wash the rice until the water is clear.
Step 2. Fry the shallots in butter for 3-4 minutes.
Step 3. Add all ingredients to a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and keep in summer for 18-20 minutes.
Step 4. Add the shredded cheese and use a fork to mix until fluffy. Serve immediately for best texture.
Pro tips for success
Wash the rice. Rinsing removes excess starch and cooks the grains light and fluffy. If you skip this step, you may end up with sticky or rubbery rice. Do not lift the lid. Opening the lid releases much needed steam and heat, which can dry out the rice and increase cooking time. Do not overcook the rice. The slightly hard grains will not lose their shape when mixed with cheese. For a creamy texture, use fresh shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Remove from heat and stir in cheese. This prevents the cheese from curdling or becoming grainy.
Recipe variations
Cheesy Broccoli Rice – Add steamed and chopped broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.
Cheesy Chicken Rice – Add cooked chicken to make a delicious queso chicken and rice dish. Kielbasa and smoked sausage also make great additions.
Extra Cheese Rice – Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese for a rich, nutty flavor.
what to eat with cheese rice
This cheese rice recipe pairs perfectly with:
FAQ
Yes, but brown rice requires longer cooking time and more liquid. Follow the cooking time indicated on the package and mix the cheese and milk together as directed at the end.
You can, but the texture will be softer. Prepare rice according to package directions, add cheese, butter, mix, and cook.
Cheddar cheese gives the richest flavor, but you can use any melty cheese such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, mozzarella, or a blend. For a stronger flavor, try sharp cheddar or Gruyere.
cheese rice
This creamy, cheesy rice recipe is the perfect comforting side dish made with simple ingredients like cheddar cheese, butter, and broth. Easy, fast, and delicious.
print
pin
Share on Facebook
Quantity: 6 for one person
calorie: 254kcal
Fee: 5 dollars
cooking modePrevent the screen from going dark
material
Instructions
Place the rice in a mesh colander under cold running water until the water runs clear. This will remove excess starch. It takes approx. 2-3 minutes. Drain well.
Place the butter in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the shallots and sauté for about 3 minutes. 3 to 4 minutes or until tender.
Stir in the rice, stock, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce stove heat to lowest setting. Boil for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender.
Remove from heat and add shredded cheese. Stir with a fork until fluffy. Taste and add more salt if needed.
Precautions
Note 2 – You can also add yellow onions if you like.
Note 3 – Other good options: Sharp Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Pepper Jack.
Storage and reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Add soup or milk and reheat in a pot or microwave to restore creaminess.
nutrition
calorie: 254kcal | carbohydrates: 26g | protein: 8g | fat: 13g | Saturated fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated fats: 1g | Monounsaturated fats: 3g | Trans fat: 0.2g | cholesterol: 34mg | sodium: 246mg | potassium: 125mg | fiber: 0.5g | sugar: 0.4g | Vitamin A: 365IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | calcium: 148mg | iron: 0.5mg
