Get ready to elevate your side dish game with this creamy, cheesy Cheddar Rice recipe—an irresistibly flavorful twist on classic comfort food. Made with tender long-grain white rice, a hint of sautéed garlic, and a generous helping of sharp cheddar cheese, this dish is rich, satisfying, and oh-so-easy to prepare. The addition of whole milk creates a luxuriously creamy texture, while a dash of salt and black pepper balances the flavors perfectly. Ready in just 25 minutes, this versatile recipe makes an ideal weeknight side, pairing beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even as a standalone indulgence. Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant pop of color, and enjoy every spoonful of this cheesy, garlicky delight! Keywords: cheddar rice recipe, cheese-infused rice, easy rice side dish, creamy cheddar rice.
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Drain well.
In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the rinsed rice, cover with a lid, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is fully absorbed.
While the rice is cooking, finely mince the garlic cloves.
In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes or until fragrant. Avoid browning the garlic.
Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork. Add the sautéed garlic and melted butter to the rice, stirring well to combine.
Reduce the heat to low and fold in the grated cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture until the cheese is fully melted and evenly coats the rice.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper as needed.
Transfer the cheddar rice to a serving dish and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve warm as a comforting side dish to your favorite proteins or vegetables.
Calories |
1213 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 81.5 g | 104% | |
| Saturated Fat | 51.2 g | 256% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.9 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 260 mg | 87% | |
| Sodium | 2471 mg | 107% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 70.1 g | 25% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.2 g | ||
| Protein | 52.1 g | 104% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.4 mcg | 12% | |
| Calcium | 1419 mg | 109% | |
| Iron | 3.9 mg | 22% | |
| Potassium | 473 mg | 10% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.