Introduction
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food destination! Today, we’re diving into a delightful dish that combines the wholesome goodness of broccoli with the creamy, indulgent flair of cheese and rice. Our Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake is the perfect one-pan wonder for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet simple to prepare.
This recipe is not only a fantastic way to sneak in those green veggies, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a side for grilled chicken or fish, or even a nourishing option for a potluck, this bake is sure to impress. With its warm, cheesy goodness and a hint of garlic, it brings comfort and joy in every bite.
So, grab your skillet and let’s get cooking! You’ll be enjoying a deliciously cheesy masterpiece in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked long grain or jasmine rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions
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- In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent.
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- Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it releases its aroma.
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- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, giving it a good stir with the onion and garlic for roughly 2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
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- Introduce the vegetable or chicken broth to the skillet, along with the paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
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- Once simmering, cover the skillet with a lid and lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.
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- While the rice cooks, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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- After 15 minutes, take the skillet off the heat and mix in the blanched broccoli, sour cream, and milk until everything is well blended.
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- Gently fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, ensuring an even distribution.
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- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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- Sprinkle the mixture in the skillet with grated Parmesan cheese.
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- Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top.
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- Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Savor your tasty Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen, for nutritious greens packed with vitamins.
- Rice: White or brown rice, cooked, as the base of the dish.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp or mild cheddar for melting goodness.
- Cream: Heavy cream or half-and-half, for a creamy texture.
- Garlic: Minced, for added flavor and aroma.
- Onion: Diced, to enhance the overall taste.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth: For cooking the rice and adding depth of flavor.
- Butter: For sautéing and richness.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Breadcrumbs: Optional, for a crunchy topping, preferably seasoned or panko.
- Parmesan Cheese: Optional, for an extra layer of cheesy flavor on top.
These ingredients combine to create a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for family meals or potlucks!
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your bake cooks evenly and thoroughly.
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Cook the Rice: If you haven’t done so already, cook your rice according to the package instructions. You can use white or brown rice, but make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed. Once cooked, set aside.
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Sauté the Broccoli: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add bite-sized pieces of fresh broccoli and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender. If you’re using frozen broccoli, make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the skillet.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked rice to the skillet with broccoli. Stir in desired spices (like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper) for flavor. Then, fold in a generous amount of shredded cheese, reserving some for topping. Mix everything until well combined.
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Create the Cheese Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together a cup of milk (or a dairy-free alternative) with some additional cheese to create a creamy cheese sauce. Pour this mixture over the rice and broccoli. Stir gently to ensure all the ingredients are coated in the sauce.
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Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the reserved cheese on top of the mixture in the skillet. This layer will create a deliciously crispy, cheesy crust during baking.
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Bake in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. If you like a more crispy topping, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
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Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help everything set up a bit more, making it easier to serve. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or green onions if desired, and enjoy your delicious Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake straight from the skillet!
Serving Suggestions
This Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to complement your meal:
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Protein Pairing: Serve alongside grilled chicken, baked salmon, or sautéed shrimp for a well-rounded meal. The creaminess of the cheese and broccoli will balance beautifully with the protein.
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Salad Companion: A light, refreshing salad makes a great addition. Try a simple green salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette to add brightness to your table.
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Bread Option: Crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls can be a delightful addition, perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness.
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Fruit Garnish: A side of sliced fresh fruit, such as pineapple, mango, or berries, can add a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the bake.
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Herb Enhancement: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be sprinkled on top before serving for a pop of color and added flavor.
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Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, serve with a side of pickled jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
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Customization: Encourage guests to customize their plates with additional toppings like crushed red pepper flakes, extra cheese, or toasted nuts for added texture.
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Wine Pairing: If you’re enjoying this bake for dinner, consider pairing it with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which will enhance the flavors of the dish.
Whatever you choose to serve alongside your Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dining experience!
Conclusion
This Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together the wholesome goodness of broccoli and the creamy, cheesy satisfaction of melted cheese. Perfect for a weeknight family dinner or as a side dish for your gatherings, it’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. The simple one-pan cooking method not only saves on cleanup but also locks in all the deliciousness, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks.
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite proteins or swapping in different vegetables to suit your family’s taste. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy it warm, and watch it disappear in no time! Happy cooking!
