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Quick Stovetop Cheesy Rice with Sharp Cheddar

A fork lifts a portion of incredibly cheesy rice from a white bowl, showing long cheese pulls of melted cheddar cheese.

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Make this creamy, comforting cheesy rice side dish on the stovetop in under 30 minutes. It uses simple ingredients like sharp cheddar and garlic for a reliable, flavorful result perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 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 stir constantly for 1 minute to toast the grains slightly.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and milk. Add the salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low.
  4. Cover the saucepan tightly and simmer for 18 to 20 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. Let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
  6. Remove the lid. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheese is fully melted and the rice is creamy.
  7. Serve the cheesy rice immediately as a side dish.

Notes

  • For extra richness, substitute 1/4 cup of the milk with 2 ounces of cream cheese, added with the shredded cheese in the final step.
  • You can use pre-cooked rice to speed up the process; skip steps 1 through 4 and simply combine the cooked rice with the broth, milk, and seasonings over low heat until warm, then stir in the cheese.
  • This recipe pairs well with grilled chicken or steak.

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