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Quick Stovetop Cheesy Rice Side Dish

A spoonful of baked cheesy rice is lifted, showing long, dramatic strings of melted cheese pulling away from the casserole.

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Make this creamy, comforting cheesy rice on the stovetop in under 30 minutes using simple ingredients like cheddar and Parmesan cheese. It is an easy side dish for any weeknight meal.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft, about 4 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the uncooked rice, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during simmering.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the milk or half-and-half.
  6. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the cheese is fully melted and the rice is creamy.
  7. Serve immediately as a rich cheesy rice side dish.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use half-and-half instead of milk.
  • You can substitute half of the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack for a milder melt.
  • This recipe works well as a base for adding cooked chicken or steamed broccoli florets.

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