Looking for a side dish that's absolutely dreamy, full of gooey goodness, and guaranteed to disappear in minutes? You need this Cheesy Rice Recipe in your life!

Picture fluffy white rice cloaked in creamy, melty cheddar cheese, with just a hint of savory onion and garlic. It's pure comfort in every bite, wrapped up in a dish so effortless, you'll want to make it on every busy weeknight.

This is the side that pleases picky eaters and impresses dinner guests alike. Quick, one-pot, and ultra-customizable - it's destined to become a staple whether you're serving a family meal, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply craving something cozy and satisfying.

Passed down from our family's weeknight rotation, you won't believe how easy and delicious it is - until you try it!

A creamy, cheesy rice dish in a white serving bowl, topped with chopped parsley.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish - so easy on busy nights
Creamy, cheesy, irresistible texture that'll please even picky eaters
Uses simple pantry staples - no fancy ingredients required
Versatile and customizable with your favorite cheeses or veggies

Key Ingredients for Cheesy Rice Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Long Grain White Rice

Rice forms the comforting, fluffy base of this dish. Long grain white rice cooks up light and separate, which means every bite gets perfectly coated with cheese. Rinse the rice before cooking for the best texture. In a pinch, jasmine or basmati rice may be substituted, but the final flavor will be slightly more aromatic.

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar brings bold, tangy flavor and that trademark stretch! Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest melt - pre-shredded blends sometimes contain anti-caking agents that can cause clumping. For a milder flavor, try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a cheese blend. Want it even creamier? Stir in some cream cheese or Gruyère!

Butter

A bit of butter adds rich flavor and makes the finished rice extra luscious. For lighter results, feel free to reduce the butter or swap it for a vegan alternative like olive oil. Using salted butter boosts savoriness, but you can also add your own salt to taste.

Onion & Garlic

These aromatics take the overall flavor up a notch. Dice the onion finely so it softens quickly and melds into the rice. No fresh garlic? Substitute ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. If you don't love onion, leave it out - or use green onion for a gentler bite.

Milk

Milk turns this from basic rice into a creamy delight. Whole milk delivers maximum richness, but 2 percent works well too. For non-dairy, unsweetened oat or soy milk make great substitutions, though the result will be slightly less creamy.

Instructions for Cheesy Rice Recipe

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds-just until it's aromatic (but not browned).

Cook the Rice

Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring well to coat each grain in butter and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Make It Creamy

Uncover the pot and stir in the milk. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to thicken and becomes extra creamy.

Add the Cheese

Remove the pan from heat and immediately fold in the freshly grated cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese is fully melted and the rice is super gooey. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer the cheesy rice to your favorite serving dish. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, if desired. Serve piping hot and enjoy the melty magic!

Recipe Variations

Spice It Up

If you love a bit of heat, stir in some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne powder before adding the cheese. Smoked paprika or a pinch of chili flakes also bring a fun twist.

Veggie-Packed Cheesy Rice

Add a heaping cup of thawed peas, steamed broccoli florets, or sautéed mushrooms along with the milk to sneak in extra veggies. It's a smart way to round out the meal, especially for picky eaters.

Vegan & Dairy-Free Option

Swap out the butter for plant-based margarine, use your favorite non-dairy milk, and substitute with vegan cheese shreds. The rice comes out just as creamy and comforting.

Swap the Cheese

Change up the flavor profile by using Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend cheese. For a smokier taste, try smoked gouda or a bit of pepper jack.

Brown Rice Version

For more nutrition and a nutty flavor, use brown rice instead. Increase the cooking time by 15-20 minutes, and add a little extra broth if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy rice is the ultimate partner to just about anything! Serve it alongside baked chicken, grilled steak, or roasted veggies for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with barbecue, makes a hearty base for burrito bowls, or even works as a filling for stuffed peppers. Garnish with extra cheese, green onions, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flair.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover cheesy rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth and microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to restore creaminess. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat for best texture, stirring frequently. Cheesy rice can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating, and expect the texture to be a bit softer after freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Rice Recipe (FAQ)

Q: Can I use pre-cooked rice for this cheesy rice recipe?

A: Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked rice, start at the step where milk is added. Warm the rice first, then stir in milk and cheese until creamy and heated through.

Q: What are the best cheeses for cheesy rice?

A: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds bold flavor, but Monterey Jack, Colby, Mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses all work well. Use what you love or have on hand!

Q: How do I make this gluten-free?

A: This recipe is naturally gluten-free when made with rice and check that your broth and cheese are certified gluten-free. Always read ingredient labels to be certain.

Thanks for joining me for this irresistible Cheesy Rice Recipe - the comfort side everyone craves! I hope it becomes a regular at your table for easy dinners and special occasions. If you make it, leave a comment or rating below - I'd love to know how it turns out for you!