Description
Enjoy a hearty Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bowl with creamy cheese, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked rice, a simple, nutritious comfort food perfect for busy evenings.
Ingredients
Rice:
- 1 cup of your preferred rice (white, brown, or alternative grain)
- 2 cups water or broth
Broccoli:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Cheese Sauce:
- 1 to 1½ cups shredded melting cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup milk (adjust for desired creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins:
- A pinch of garlic powder
- A sprinkle of chopped herbs (parsley, chives)
Instructions
Cook the Rice:
- Rinse 1 cup of rice and place it in a saucepan with 2 cups of water or broth.
- Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed (about 15-20 minutes).
Steam the Broccoli:
- While the rice is cooking, steam 2 cups of broccoli florets until they are bright green and just tender (about 5-7 minutes).
Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a separate small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over low heat.
- Stir in 1/2 cup of milk and slowly add 1 to 1½ cups of shredded cheese.
- Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder if using.
Assemble the Bowl:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and steamed broccoli.
- Pour the warm cheese sauce over the rice and broccoli, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.
Finish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped herbs if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bowl as a hearty meal.
Notes
Fresh broccoli delivers the best texture; if using frozen, reduce the cooking time slightly.
For a smoother cheese sauce, stir continuously and adjust the milk quantity to reach your preferred consistency.
Experiment with different types of rice (white, brown, or alternative grains) to vary the dish’s flavor and nutritional profile.
A pinch of garlic powder enhances the overall taste without overwhelming the dish, add sparingly.
Consider topping the bowl with additional protein, such as a poached egg or a handful of cooked beans, for an extra nutritional boost.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and reheated with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Calories: 350