This recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food side dish: rich, creamy, and gooey stovetop cheesy rice made quickly for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Author:mayathompson
Prep Time:10 min
Cook Time:30 min
Total Time:40 min
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Side Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1/2 cup finely chopped yellow onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
3 cups chicken broth or water
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
Melt the butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the uncooked rice to the pan and toast, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes until the edges of the grains look slightly translucent.
Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and add the salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pan tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
Remove the pan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this resting period.
Remove the lid. Add the cubed cream cheese and milk to the rice. Stir gently until the cream cheese has melted into the rice.
Add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese is fully melted and the rice is creamy and gooey. Serve immediately.
Notes
For an extra savory flavor, use half chicken broth and half whole milk for the liquid base.
If you prefer a casserole style, transfer the finished mixture to a baking dish, top with more cheddar, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until bubbly.
This cheesy rice pairs well with grilled chicken or steak.