Irresistible Cheesy Rice: Comfort Food Delight Recipe

There’s something downright magical about cheesy rice. Just imagine a steaming bowl of fluffy rice coated in creamy, gooey cheese that hugs each grain tightly. The aroma wafts through the air, making your stomach rumble louder than a freight train. This dish is comfort food at its finest, and it’s perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends and family.

I have vivid memories of my grandma whipping up her famous cheesy rice during family get-togethers. The laughter echoed through the kitchen as we all eagerly awaited our helpings. Cheesy rice was the star of the show, bringing everyone together around the table, and I can promise you, this recipe will do the same in your home.

There’s nothing quite like watching friends and family devour cheesy rice with joy written all over their faces.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Long-Grain Rice: Use long-grain rice for a fluffy texture that won’t clump together while cooking.

• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a robust flavor; feel free to mix in different cheeses for variety.

• Milk: Whole milk works best for creaminess, but you can substitute with low-fat if needed.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter for better control over the dish’s saltiness; it’ll add a lovely richness.

• Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances flavor without overpowering the cheese.

• Onion Powder: This adds depth; fresh onions can also be sautéed for an extra kick.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors; season according to your taste preferences.

• Parsley (optional): Fresh parsley makes a lovely garnish; it adds color and freshness to the final dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Ingredients: Start by measuring out your rice and cheese while chopping any fresh ingredients like parsley if you’re using it. Keep everything handy—it speeds up cooking time!

Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add 1 cup of long-grain rice along with a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low and cover until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Create the Cheese Sauce: In another pot over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth, then gradually whisk in 1 cup of milk until combined.

Combine Everything Together: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork before slowly pouring in your cheese sauce. Gently fold everything together until each grain is enveloped in cheesy goodness.

Add Seasoning and Serve!: Sprinkle in garlic powder and onion powder along with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm topped with fresh parsley for an enticing presentation that will impress everyone at your table!

Now you’ve got cheesy rice that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser! Enjoy every gooey bite as you take pride in creating this delightful dish from scratch.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the rice until fluffy, then stir in cheese while it’s still hot. This ensures the cheese melts perfectly, creating a creamy consistency without clumps.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cheeses or add veggies like broccoli or mushrooms. A sprinkle of paprika adds extra depth, turning this dish into a flavor fiesta.

Storing & Reheating

Store cheesy rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Sometimes, I whip up cheesy rice when friends come over; their smiles are worth every cheesy bite! It’s that one dish that never fails to impress and bring everyone together.

FAQ

What type of cheese works best for cheesy rice?

Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack create a rich, melty texture that pairs beautifully with rice.

Can I make cheesy rice ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it in advance and reheat when ready to serve for easy meal prep.

How can I make cheesy rice more nutritious?

Incorporate spinach or peas for added vitamins while keeping those cheesy flavors intact!

Print

Cheesy Rice

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Mia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Cheesy rice is the ultimate comfort food, blending fluffy long-grain rice with creamy, gooey cheese. Perfect for cozy nights or gatherings, this dish will bring warmth and joy to your table. With its rich flavor and vibrant color, cheesy rice is not only a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly versatile, pairing well with proteins or shining as a vegetarian delight on its own.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Measure out the rice and cheese; chop parsley if using.
2. Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt. Cover and reduce heat to low; cook for 15-20 minutes until tender.
3. Make the cheese sauce: In another pot over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until combined.
4. Combine: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then pour in the cheese sauce. Gently fold together until all rice is coated.
5. Season and serve: Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
• Calories: 370
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 45mg