Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice (One Pan!)
Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Cooking
This delightful one-pan dish combines tender broccoli and rich cheddar cheese with fluffy rice for a comforting meal that's both easy to make and full of flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this creamy broccoli cheddar rice is sure to be a family favorite. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it's a delicious way to sneak some veggies into your dinner rotation. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy goodness in just one pan!
This creamy broccoli cheddar rice dish is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation
- Deliciously creamy texture
- Packed with nutritious broccoli
- Great for weeknight dinners
A One-Pan Wonder
One of the best features of this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice recipe is its simplicity. Everything is prepared in just one pan, making it not only easy to cook but also easy to clean up afterward. This is especially beneficial for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without the hassle of multiple dishes. The one-pan method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying.
Additionally, this dish serves as a great foundation for various add-ins or modifications. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or even some crispy bacon. This versatility means you can enjoy a different variation each time, keeping your dinner routine exciting while retaining the core comforting flavors.
Nutritious and Comforting
Incorporating broccoli into this creamy rice dish provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it both a tasty and nutritious choice. Broccoli is rich in Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which contribute to overall health and well-being. With this recipe, you can easily sneak more vegetables into your family's diet without them even noticing, thanks to the delicious cheese and creamy texture.
The addition of cheddar cheese not only enhances the flavor but also adds a good source of protein and calcium. This balance of nutrition and flavor makes this recipe a perfect choice for families aiming to maintain a healthy diet while satisfying picky eaters.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice dish is also an excellent option for meal prepping. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week, portion it out, and have ready-to-go lunches or dinners for days. Just reheat individual servings in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and delicious meal that saves you time and effort throughout the week.
The leftovers, if there are any, taste just as great the next day! The flavors continue to develop, making it an ideal dish to enjoy multiple times. Plus, by preparing this one-pan meal in advance, you can ensure that you always have a wholesome, comforting option on hand, ready to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped before starting for the best cooking experience.
Steps to Make Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice
Prepare the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
Add Rice and Broth
Stir in the rice, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Cook the Broccoli
Add the broccoli florets to the rice mixture, covering the pan and allowing it to simmer until the rice is cooked and the broccoli is tender.
Stir in the Cheese
Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Enjoy your meal straight from the pan for easy cleanup!
Serving Suggestions
For an extra touch, consider garnishing your Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's flavor profile. You can also serve it alongside a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast, incorporating even more veggies into your meal.
If you're looking to elevate the dining experience, pair this dish with a light white wine. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the richness of the cheese while balancing the flavors of the broccoli.
Storage Tips
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it convenient for quick reheating during busy weeknights when you need a fast yet delicious meal at hand.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions of the dish. Just be mindful that the texture may change slightly upon thawing, but the flavors will remain delightful. Make sure to label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness.
Nutritional Benefits
In addition to being delicious, this Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice is a powerhouse of nutrition. Broccoli is known for its cancer-fighting properties and ability to support heart health. The fiber content helps aid digestion, making this dish a smart addition to your diet.
Moreover, the presence of whole grains from the rice offers sustained energy, making this meal not just comforting but also beneficial for your overall health. Enjoying this dish can help you feel satisfied without compromising your nutritional goals.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and the amount of liquid.
→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, it can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice (One Pan!)
This delightful one-pan dish combines tender broccoli and rich cheddar cheese with fluffy rice for a comforting meal that's both easy to make and full of flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this creamy broccoli cheddar rice is sure to be a family favorite. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it's a delicious way to sneak some veggies into your dinner rotation. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy goodness in just one pan!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Classic Comfort Cooking
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
Stir in the rice, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Add the broccoli florets to the rice mixture, covering the pan and allowing it to simmer until the rice is cooked and the broccoli is tender.
Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 42g