Looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love? Look no further than this Cheesy Broccoli Rice Skillet Dinner! In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a mouthwatering one-pan meal that's packed with cheesy goodness and nutritious broccoli. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe combines simple ingredients and minimal cleanup, making it a go-to option for anyone craving comfort food without the fuss. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this cheesy delight that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, ensuring the entire bottom of the pan is coated.
- Add uncooked rice to the skillet and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning and allow the rice to develop a light golden color.
- Pour vegetable broth into the skillet, stirring to combine with the toasted rice. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the liquid is almost completely absorbed.
- Add broccoli florets on top of the rice, keeping them in a single layer. Replace the lid and steam for 3-4 minutes until broccoli is bright green and tender-crisp.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper evenly over the rice and broccoli, gently stirring to distribute the seasonings.
- Remove skillet from heat and immediately scatter shredded cheddar cheese over the top, allowing the residual heat to melt the cheese.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow cheese to fully melt and flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet, ensuring each portion has a good mix of rice, broccoli, and melted cheese.
Tips
- Toast the Rice: Don’t skip the toasting step! It adds a wonderful nutty flavor to the dish and helps the rice cook more evenly.
- Use Fresh Broccoli: For the best texture and flavor, opt for fresh broccoli florets instead of frozen. They add a vibrant color and crunch to the meal.
- Customize the Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up! Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans to the skillet along with the broccoli.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the garlic powder, salt, and pepper according to your preferences. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a nice touch of heat!
- Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld and ensures a creamier cheese topping.
- Serve with a Side Salad: Pair this dish with a light side salad for a complete meal that balances the richness of the cheese.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
