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Discover the delightful combination of creamy white cheddar and fresh broccoli in this comforting recipe for Creamy White Cheddar & Broccoli Rice Delight. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides a nutritious option that can be enjoyed as a side or main course. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share with family, this recipe has everything you need to satisfy your cravings while being easy to prepare.

Family-Fave White Cheddar & Broccoli Rice

Dive into summer flavors with our Creamy White Cheddar & Broccoli Rice Delight, a perfect addition to your cookout or BBQ. This creamy, comforting dish pairs fresh broccoli with rich white cheddar in just 30 minutes, making it an easy weeknight dinner option. It's versatile too—serve it as a main or side! Treat your family to this craveable delight tonight and savor the taste of summer. Save this for later!

Ingredients
  

1 cup white rice (uncooked)

2 cups vegetable broth or water

2 cups fresh broccoli florets (or frozen, thawed)

1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese

½ cup milk (whole or low-fat)

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

¼ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)

¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth or water to a boil. Stir in the rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for about 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

    Prepare the Broccoli: While the rice is cooking, steam the broccoli florets in a separate pot for about 3-5 minutes, until tender but still vibrant green. If using frozen broccoli, microwave it in a bowl with a tablespoon of water until heated through. Drain any excess water and set aside.

      Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

        Combine Ingredients: Add in the cooked rice to the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic, followed by the steamed broccoli. Stir to combine.

          Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the milk and add the shredded white cheddar cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes, if using. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.

            Serve: Once everything is heated through and creamy, remove from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.

              Enjoy: Serve warm as a side dish or a main course, perfect for the family to enjoy together!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | Serves 4-6