Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this irresistible recipe for Fluffy Cheese Rice! Perfectly cooked long-grain white rice is transformed into a creamy, flavor-packed dish with the addition of melted cheddar and parmesan cheeses, a touch of milk, and a hint of garlic powder. The rice is steamed to fluffy perfection, then coated in a velvety cheese sauce thatβs rich yet balanced. Ready in just 25 minutes, this dish pairs beautifully with everything from grilled meats to roasted vegetables, making it an effortless side dish or a hearty standalone meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, elevating the presentation. Whether you're looking for an easy weeknight dinner idea or a crowd-pleasing side for your next gathering, Fluffy Cheese Rice is as versatile as it is delicious!
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps keep the rice fluffy.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once the water starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become perfectly fluffy.
Uncover the rice and gently fluff it with a fork.
In the same saucepan, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, milk, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Turn the heat to low and stir until the cheeses are completely melted and the rice is coated in a creamy cheese sauce.
Taste the cheese rice and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a little more salt or pepper if desired.
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for garnish and serve immediately.
Calories |
1052 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 68.4 g | 88% | |
| Saturated Fat | 42.4 g | 212% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 215 mg | 72% | |
| Sodium | 2260 mg | 98% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 66.2 g | 24% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 3.4 g | ||
| Protein | 44.5 g | 89% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.8 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 1177 mg | 91% | |
| Iron | 3.0 mg | 17% | |
| Potassium | 255 mg | 5% | |
*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.