Cheese rice is one of those comforting, creamy dishes that can easily become a family favorite. Whether you want a quick side for dinner or a cozy meal on its own, making cheese rice is straightforward and requires only a few simple ingredients. In this article, I’ll walk you through an easy recipe and share some handy tips to ensure your cheesy rice turns out perfectly every time.
What Is Cheese Rice?
Cheese rice is essentially cooked rice combined with melted cheese to create a creamy, flavorful dish. It’s a versatile recipe that pairs well with a variety of mains like chicken, fish, or even burgers. The cheese adds richness and a lovely gooey texture that makes every bite satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a basic and tasty cheese rice, gather the following:
– 1 cup long grain white rice (not instant or brown for this recipe)
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– ½ small onion, finely diced
– 8 ounces chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
– 8 ounces whole milk
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ¼ teaspoon black pepper
– 4 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, grated
These ingredients come together to create a creamy, cheesy rice that’s bursting with flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Rinse the Rice
Start by rinsing your rice under cold water using a fine mesh sieve. This step removes excess surface starch, which helps the rice cook up fluffy and prevents it from becoming sticky or gummy.
2. Sauté Onions
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they start to brown lightly around the edges, about 3 to 4 minutes. This adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to your dish.
3. Add Rice and Liquids
Add the rinsed rice to the pan, then pour in the chicken broth and milk. Stir in the paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Rice
Cover the saucepan tightly and reduce the heat to very low—almost off. Let the rice cook undisturbed for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking, as this lets steam escape and can dry out the rice or prolong cooking time.
If the rice looks dry before it’s fully cooked or starts sticking to the bottom, add a splash of water and stir gently, then cover and continue cooking on low heat.
5. Add Cheese and Finish
Remove the pan from heat and immediately stir in the grated cheddar cheese. Gently fluff the rice with a fork as the cheese melts and blends into the rice, creating a creamy texture.
Tips for Perfect Cheese Rice
– Use the right rice: Long grain white rice works best for creamy, fluffy results. Brown rice can be used but requires a longer cooking time (up to 45 minutes) and more liquid.
– Keep heat low: Cooking on very low heat prevents burning and allows the rice to absorb the liquid slowly.
– Don’t over-stir: Stirring too much during cooking can make the rice mushy.
– Try different cheeses: Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can experiment with Velveeta for a smooth texture or even mozzarella for a milder flavor.
– Add herbs or spices: Fresh parsley, cayenne pepper, or paprika can add extra flavor and color.
Variations to Try
– Creamy Cheese Rice with Velveeta: Use cubed Velveeta cheese instead of cheddar for a silky smooth texture. Cook rice with water and salt, then stir in the cheese and fresh parsley after cooking.
– Baked Cheesy Rice: After cooking the rice, transfer it to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly and golden on top for a comforting casserole-style dish.
– Instant Pot Cheesy Rice: Combine rice, cheese, water, and salt in an Instant Pot and pressure cook for 3 minutes (white rice) or 20 minutes (brown rice). Let pressure release naturally, then stir and serve.
How to Store and Reheat Cheese Rice
Store leftover cheese rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.
What to Serve with Cheese Rice
Cheese rice pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:
– Grilled or roasted chicken
– Pan-seared salmon or other fish
– Sausages or hot dogs for a casual meal
– Steamed or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option
Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a perfect side for many comfort foods.
Cheese rice is a simple yet delicious dish that anyone can master. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a creamy, cheesy delight that will warm you up and satisfy your taste buds.
Enjoy your cheesy rice adventure!