Cheddar Rice Side Dish
Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting, this Cheddar Rice Side Dish is the perfect upgrade to your mealtime routine. Made with fluffy long-grain white rice, rich sharp cheddar cheese, and a savory blend of sautéed onions and garlic, this recipe brings together simple pantry staples for a dish that's as easy to make as it is satisfying. The rice is simmered in chicken or vegetable broth for a boost of flavor, then finished with a touch of milk for an ultra-creamy texture. Garnished with fresh parsley, this versatile side pairs beautifully with everything from roasted chicken to grilled vegetables, making it a crowd-pleasing addition to any table. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's an effortless yet delicious way to switch up your usual sides.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.25 cup whole milk (or heavy cream)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat it in the butter. Toast the rice for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and milk until the cheese is fully melted and the mixture is creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If desired, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for garnish before serving.
Serve warm as a delicious side dish to your favorite main course.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1064 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 63.8 g | 82% | |
| Saturated Fat | 39.7 g | 198% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 188 mg | 63% | |
| Sodium | 3664 mg | 159% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 87.1 g | 32% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.7 g | 17% | |
| Total Sugars | 12.8 g | ||
| Protein | 41.5 g | 83% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.4 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 992 mg | 76% | |
| Iron | 4.9 mg | 27% | |
| Potassium | 750 mg | 16% | |
*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.
