Skillet Broccoli-Cheddar Rice Recipe

Introduction

This Skillet Broccoli-Cheddar Rice is a comforting and easy one-pan dish that combines tender broccoli with sharp cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying side that the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 large head broccoli, stem coarsely chopped, florets cut into 1-inch pieces
• Salt
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 4 ounces grated sharp Cheddar (about 1 cup)
• Hot sauce, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe skillet with a lid, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and chopped broccoli stem, season with salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened but not browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Step 2: Stir in the rice and 1¾ cups water. Season with salt (about 1 teaspoon kosher salt). Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Step 3: After 10 minutes, quickly scatter the broccoli florets on top of the rice and season with a pinch of salt. Cover and continue cooking until the rice is tender and the broccoli is bright green, about 8 to 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and let rest, covered, for 5 minutes.
4. Step 4: Meanwhile, position a rack near the broiler and preheat the broiler to high. Gently stir the broccoli and rice, then sprinkle the grated cheddar evenly over the top. Broil until the cheese is melted and golden in spots, 2 to 4 minutes. Serve with a dash of hot sauce, if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor, or mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different twist.
• To add protein, stir in cooked chicken or crispy bacon before adding the cheese.
• Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top brighten the dish and add freshness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the rice. Avoid broiling again as cheese may overcook.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Brown rice can be used, but it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly and check for tenderness before adding the broccoli.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Skillet Broccoli-Cheddar Rice Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 91 reviews

• Author: lilan
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A comforting and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender broccoli and sharp Cheddar cheese mixed with fluffy long-grain white rice. The recipe uses a stovetop cooking method followed by a broiler finish to melt and brown the cheese, making it a perfect quick and satisfying meal or side dish.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 large head broccoli, stem coarsely chopped, florets cut into 1-inch pieces
• Salt, to taste
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 4 ounces grated sharp Cheddar (about 1 cup)
• Hot sauce, for serving (optional)

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Instructions

1. Sauté aromatics: In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe skillet with a lid, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, thinly sliced garlic, and chopped broccoli stems. Season with salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened but not browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
2. Add rice and water: Stir in the long-grain white rice and add 1¾ cups of water. Season with about 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Simmer rice: Once boiling, cover the skillet with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let the rice simmer for 10 minutes to begin cooking through.
4. Add broccoli florets: Quickly scatter the broccoli florets over the partially cooked rice, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and cover again. Continue to cook for another 8 to 10 minutes until the rice is tender and the broccoli is bright green.
5. Rest the rice: Turn off the heat and let the covered skillet rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and any remaining moisture to absorb.
6. Broil with cheese: Position a rack near the broiler and preheat the broiler to high. Stir the broccoli and rice gently to combine, then evenly sprinkle the grated sharp Cheddar on top. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2 to 4 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden in spots.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and optionally drizzle with hot sauce before serving warm for a delicious and cheesy broccoli-cheddar rice dish.

Notes

• Using an oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven is essential for the broiling step.
• Do not overcook the broccoli to keep it bright green and slightly crisp.
• Adjust salt to taste, especially if using salted butter.
• Hot sauce adds a nice spicy kick but is optional.
• This recipe pairs well with grilled meats or can be served as a hearty vegetarian main.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: broccoli cheddar rice, one pot rice, skillet rice, cheese rice, easy side dish, stovetop rice, broccoli recipe