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Quick Stovetop Cheesy Rice with Sharp Cheddar

A close-up view of creamy cheesy rice topped with melted cheddar cheese and black pepper in a white bowl.

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Make this easy, creamy cheesy rice side dish on the stovetop in under 30 minutes. It uses simple ingredients like sharp cheddar and garlic for a comforting flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic brown.
  2. Add the uncooked rice to the saucepan and toast for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly until the edges of the grains look slightly translucent.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the milk or half-and-half.
  6. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the cheese is fully melted and the rice is creamy.
  7. Serve this easy cheesy rice immediately as a comforting side dish.

Notes

  • For extra richness, substitute the milk with 1/4 cup of cream cheese, adding it with the shredded cheese.
  • You can use pre-cooked rice to speed up the process; skip steps 1 through 4 and proceed to step 5, heating the broth mixture first.
  • This cheesy rice pairs well with grilled chicken or steak for a complete dinner.

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