Creamy, cheesy rice is one of those dishes that can make any meal feel special. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish, a quick dinner, or part of a holiday spread, cheesy rice is always a crowd-pleaser. This simple, satisfying recipe is rich in flavor and comes together in just 25 minutes. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting or when you’re looking for a dish to impress your guests. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this cheesy rice recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesy rice recipe is everything you crave in comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness. It’s incredibly easy to make and requires only a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. The combination of butter, milk, and melted cheese creates a silky, flavorful sauce that coats each grain of rice perfectly. Plus, it’s customizable! Whether you add herbs, spicy hot sauce, or extra seasonings, you can make this dish your own. It’s a versatile and quick meal that’s perfect for busy nights, yet fancy enough for a dinner party.
Ingredients
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2 cups cooked white rice (long grain, jasmine, or basmati work well)
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Velveeta for creaminess)
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1/2 cup milk or cream
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional: chopped parsley, green onions, or hot sauce for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic powder and stir for 30 seconds to bloom the flavor.
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Stir in the milk or cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.
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Add the shredded cheese to the saucepan and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
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Fold in the cooked rice and mix thoroughly until all the grains are coated in the cheese sauce.
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Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If needed, adjust the cream or cheese to get the desired consistency.
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Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or hot sauce before serving.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 6
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper for extra heat.
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Herbal Twist: Stir in some fresh chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or basil for a fragrant lift.
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Cheese Variety: Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.
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Add-ins: Try adding sautéed vegetables, cooked chicken, or bacon bits for added texture and flavor.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftover cheesy rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. Make sure the rice is fully cooked before mixing it with the cheese sauce.
Can I make this recipe without cream?
Yes, you can substitute cream with milk or even a dairy-free milk like almond milk for a lighter version.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Yes, to make it vegan, use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk (like coconut or almond milk), and substitute the butter with vegan butter.
What can I do if the cheese sauce gets too thick?
If the sauce gets too thick, simply add more milk or cream to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cheesy rice ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
How do I keep the rice from being too sticky?
Make sure your rice is cooked and cooled slightly before mixing it with the sauce. Using freshly cooked, hot rice can sometimes lead to a sticky texture.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer. Mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack could all work wonderfully for different flavors.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! You can easily add sautéed spinach, peas, or even mushrooms to make this a heartier dish.
What if I don’t have garlic powder?
You can substitute garlic powder with minced fresh garlic, or try using a bit of onion powder for a different flavor.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
For a spicy twist, add a bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce or top the rice with a spicy garnish.
Conclusion
This Delicious Cheesy Rice Recipe is the perfect dish to elevate any meal. With its creamy texture, rich cheesy flavor, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or making something special for guests, this cheesy rice will never disappoint. Quick, easy, and always satisfying, it’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
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Delicious Cheesy Rice Recipes to Make Any Meal Unforgettable
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this Delicious Cheesy Rice recipe, perfect for any occasion. Creamy, cheesy, and flavorful, this dish transforms simple rice into a mouthwatering side or main meal. With the richness of cheddar, butter, and milk, it’s an irresistible choice for quick dinners or festive meals. Keywords: cheesy rice recipe, creamy rice dish, easy cheesy rice, cheesy side dish, cheesy rice dinner.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked white rice (long grain, jasmine, or basmati work well)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Velveeta for extra creaminess)
1/2 cup milk or cream
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley, green onions, or hot sauce for garnish
Instructions
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add garlic powder and stir for 30 seconds to bloom the flavor.
Stir in the milk or cream and bring it to a gentle simmer (do not let it boil).
Add the shredded cheese and stir continuously until fully melted and smooth.
Fold in the cooked rice and mix thoroughly until all the grains are coated in the cheese sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust cream or cheese as needed to get the desired consistency.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
Notes
Using cold rice directly from the fridge without reheating can result in uneven temperature and texture.
Avoid overheating the cheese or milk mixture, as this can cause it to curdle or separate.
Seasoning properly is essential. Even cheese needs help to shine, so don’t forget to add salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings.
Adding cheese before the milk is fully warmed may lead to a grainy texture.
Water instead of broth or milk can dilute the flavor, so stick with milk for the best result.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
