Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bowl
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.