Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice

Name: Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh broccoli florets; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup milk; 2 tablespoons butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: garlic powder for seasoning

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice at home. It’s a deliciously rich dish that brings together the comforting flavors of cheese and broccoli, creating a perfect side for any meal. The creamy texture paired with tender rice makes it a hit with my family and friends. Plus, it’s simple to prepare! I enjoy how versatile this dish is; you can even add leftover chicken or sautéed vegetables to make it a complete meal. Today, I can’t wait to share my version of this comforting classic with you!

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-15T16:01:19.182Z

When I first tried making Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The key is to use freshly steamed broccoli, which adds a vibrant color and brings out its natural sweetness. I found that cooking the rice in vegetable broth instead of water enhances the flavor beautifully, making each bite satisfying and delicious.

I remember the first time I served it at a family gathering. Everyone kept asking for seconds! This dish is an easy way to get in some veggies while still satisfying that cheesy craving. I sometimes sprinkle a bit of garlic powder for added taste, which makes it even more irresistible!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that pairs perfectly with crispy broccoli
Rich, cheesy flavor that's comforting and satisfying
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Ingredient Highlights

The star of Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice is undoubtedly the sharp cheddar cheese. Its rich flavor not only adds depth to the dish but also enhances the creamy texture. Opting for sharp cheddar instead of mild means you'll have a more pronounced cheesy taste, which balances beautifully with the fresh broccoli. If you find sharp cheddar a bit too intense, a blend of mild and sharp works well, creating a smoother flavor profile while still delivering that delightful cheesiness.

Broccoli is the second key player in this dish, bringing both nutrition and texture. When selecting broccoli, look for vibrant green florets with firm stalks. This ensures you’ll get the best flavor and crunch. Steaming the broccoli until it's bright green yet still crisp is crucial; it retains more nutrients and keeps its bite, adding a satisfying contrast to the creamy rice. If you're short on time, frozen broccoli florets can be used as a quick substitute – just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before adding them to the final dish.

Cooking Techniques

Cooking the rice in vegetable broth is a key technique that infuses it with additional flavor. For best results, use a medium saucepan that can be tightly covered. Bring the broth to a rolling boil before adding the rice, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently. A gentle simmer helps prevent the rice from becoming mushy, ensuring each grain is fluffy and separate. Keep an eye on the cooking time; if you find the rice too al dente after 15 minutes, a splash more broth can be added to finish cooking.

Creating the cheese sauce requires careful attention to heat when melting cheese. It’s essential to stir the sauce continuously over medium heat to avoid scorching the milk or separating the cheese. If you notice the cheese getting grainy, reduce the heat even further and add a splash of milk to smooth it out. I’ve found that combining the cheese into the sauce gradually helps achieve a perfectly creamy texture without curdling, and finish off by letting it simmer gently just until it's glossy and well-combined.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting for the best results!

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups fresh broccoli florets
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: garlic powder for seasoning

Now that you have everything, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to whip up this delightful dish!

Cook the Rice

In a medium saucepan, combine the uncooked rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked.

Steam the Broccoli

While the rice is cooking, steam the broccoli florets in a separate pot for about 5-7 minutes until they are bright green and tender but still crisp.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the milk and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if desired.

Combine Everything

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the cheese sauce. Mix in the steamed broccoli until everything is well combined and heated through.

Enjoy your creamy broccoli cheddar rice as a side or a main dish!

Pro Tips

To add even more flavor, consider mixing in cooked chicken or mushrooms. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice makes a fantastic side dish but can also stand alone as a meal. To transform it into a more substantial offering, consider adding cooked protein such as diced leftover chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative. This not only enhances the dish's heartiness but also introduces additional textures and flavors. Pair the dish with grilled meats or a fresh salad to balance its richness.

For a fun twist, try serving this dish with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a kick or garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for brightness. A dollop of sour cream on top can also add a delightful tang, perfectly complementing the richness of the cheese. You could even experiment with different cheeses such as pepper jack or mozzarella for a unique flavor profile that suits your personal taste.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to the dish to help restore its creamy texture, as the rice will absorb moisture during storage. Gently reheat it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without drying it out.

For longer storage, the dish can also be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to a month, but be sure to label it with the date. To reheat from frozen, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stovetop, adjusting the liquid as needed for a creamy consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just cook it for a few extra minutes until heated through.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk for a delicious dairy-free version.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for some extra heat.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can prepare the rice and broccoli in advance, then simply combine them with the cheese sauce when you’re ready to serve.