Cheesy Broccoli Rice for Kids Recipe
Introduction
This Cheesy Rice recipe is a simple, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights and loved by kids. Combining tender rice, broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s an easy way to sneak in some veggies while keeping flavors creamy and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain rice, rinsed (195g)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup frozen broccoli, thawed and chopped into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: a splash of milk or half and half
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the broth is mostly absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff the rice with a fork.
- Step 2: Add the melted butter, garlic powder, and chopped broccoli to the rice. Stir well, cover again, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted. For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or half and half if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of black pepper or a sprinkle of paprika.
- Swap out the broccoli for other veggies like peas, corn, or spinach to mix it up.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
Storage
Store leftover cheesy rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little milk or broth to restore creaminess if the rice has dried out.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook—about 40-45 minutes—so adjust cooking time accordingly and make sure to use enough broth.
Can this dish be made dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free butter and a vegan cheese alternative, and skip the splash of milk or choose a plant-based milk for creaminess.
PrintCheesy Broccoli Rice for Kids Recipe
This kid-approved Cheesy Rice recipe combines tender long grain rice cooked in flavorful low-sodium chicken broth with melted cheddar cheese and nutritious broccoli. Enhanced with garlic powder and butter for rich taste, it makes a creamy and comforting one-pot meal that’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for a wholesome family dinner or a tasty side dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain rice, rinsed (195g)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup frozen broccoli, thawed and chopped into small pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional: a splash of milk or half and half
Instructions
- Prepare the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Bring the low-sodium chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir in the rinsed rice, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and allow to simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until the broth is mostly absorbed and the rice is tender to the bite. Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
- Add flavor and broccoli: Stir in the melted butter, garlic powder, and chopped broccoli. Mix well to combine the flavors. Cover the pan again and continue cooking on low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm the broccoli through and blend the ingredients.
- Melt the cheese: Remove the lid, then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts evenly throughout the rice mixture. For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or half and half, stirring well to incorporate. Serve warm as a hearty, cheesy dish kids will love.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice removes surface starch, preventing clumping and giving fluffier rice.
- Using low-sodium broth helps control the salt content for a healthier dish suitable for kids.
- You can substitute the frozen broccoli with fresh broccoli—just steam or chop finely before adding.
- The optional milk or half and half adds richness but can be omitted for a lighter version.
- Feel free to customize the cheese by using mozzarella or a mild Monterey Jack for different flavors.
Keywords: cheesy rice, kid-friendly rice recipe, broccoli rice, easy cheesy side dish, quick family dinner, comfort food, stovetop rice dish
