Go Back
Easy cheesy rice recipe in a bowl with melted cheddar cheese and fresh chives

Easy Cheesy Rice Recipe

The creamiest, most comforting one-pot cheesy rice made on the stovetop with sharp cheddar, butter, and broth — ready in 30 minutes and endlessly customizable.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream
  • 1½ cups sharp cheddar freshly shredded
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Chives for garnish optional
  • Smoked paprika optional

Method
 

  1. Combine rice and broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Reduce heat to the lowest setting. Cover tightly and cook for 18 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
  3. Once broth is absorbed, stir in butter and milk over low heat until the butter melts and the rice loosens into a creamy consistency.
  4. Add shredded cheddar in 2–3 additions, stirring constantly between each addition, until fully melted and silky.
  5. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust. Garnish with chives. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • Always shred cheese from a block — pre-shredded won't melt as smoothly.
  • Leftover rice works great: warm with a splash of broth before adding butter and cheese.
  • To make without milk: substitute cream cheese or extra broth.
  • Baked version: transfer to a greased dish, top with extra cheese, bake at 375°F for 20 min.
  • Add-ins: broccoli, chicken, peas, roasted corn — stir in at the end.
  • Reheat: add a splash of milk/broth and warm gently over medium-low, stirring often.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 320
Carbs: 38g
Protein: 11g
Fat: 14g
Sat. fat: 8g
Sodium: 480mg
Fiber: 0.5g
Sugar: 1g