Cheesy Rice
Ingredients
- 1 clong grain white rice*)
not instant or brown (see note below
- 3 tbspunsalted butter
- ½ smallonion
small diced
- 8 ozchicken broth
- 8 ozwhole milk
- ½ tsppaprika
- ¼ tspsalt
- ¼ tsppepper
- 4 ozsharp cheddar cheese
grated
Directions
- 1
Add your rice to a fine mesh sieve and rinse to remove surface starches. This helps the rice cook up fluffy with individual grains. Otherwise, rice can turn out sticky or gummy.
- 2
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add onion and cook until it begins to lightly brown around the edges, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- 3
Add rice, chicken broth, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper to pan, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low (almost off).
- 4
Cook for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Resist the urge to lift the lid repeatedly during the cooking process (this can elongate cooking time and dry out the rice by releasing steam).
- 5
Remove from heat. Add shredded cheese. Gently stir and fluff rice with a fork. Serve warm.
Cheesy Rice
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 72 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving a side dish that's both deeply comforting and incredibly easy to make? Our Cheesy Rice recipe delivers a rich, creamy indulgence with minimal fuss, perfect for any weeknight or special occasion. You'll love how simple ingredients transform into a decadent accompaniment that truly shines.
Why This Cheesy Rice Works
This Cheesy Rice recipe is a winner because it focuses on classic comfort and straightforward preparation. By simmering long grain white rice with whole milk and chicken broth, you build a wonderfully creamy foundation before folding in plenty of sharp cheddar. The careful balance of liquids ensures each grain is perfectly tender, creating a consistently smooth and savory experience that rivals more complex dishes.
What to Expect
Prepare for a spoonful of pure comfort. This Cheesy Rice is all about a luscious, tender texture where each grain of rice is enveloped in a velvety, savory sauce. The sharp cheddar cheese provides a bold, tangy backbone that's perfectly balanced by the subtle warmth of paprika. It's a comforting side dish that feels familiar yet utterly satisfying, making it an instant family favorite. This simple stovetop preparation means you can achieve this deliciousness without any special equipment or advanced culinary skills.
Customization & Variations
While delicious as is, this Cheesy Rice is also wonderfully adaptable. You can experiment with different cheese varieties—try a medium cheddar for a milder flavor, or a Monterey Jack for extra meltiness. For an added layer of flavor, consider a pinch of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. A sprinkle of fresh chives or green onions at the end would also add a bright, herbaceous note.
Serving & Context
This comforting Cheesy Rice is the ideal companion to nearly any main course. It pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled pork chops, or even a simple pan-seared steak. Serve it warm in a large bowl, perhaps with a sprinkle of extra cheese and a grind of fresh black pepper for an inviting presentation.