Cheese Rice
Cheese Rice offers a comforting blend of tender rice infused with creamy American cheese, complemented by a hint of onion and mustard for added flavor. This versatile dish is perfect as a side or main course, appealing to cheese lovers and those seeking a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water to a boiling point.
- Add butter, salt, and rice to the boiling water. Bring to a boil again.
- Reduce heat to low and cook covered for 20 to 25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Stir in shredded American cheese, chopped onion, and prepared mustard into the hot rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a splash of milk or cream along with the cheese. You can also substitute American cheese with cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses. To enhance the taste, sauté the onions in the butter before adding the rice. This dish is a comforting side, perfect for pairing with grilled meats or a fresh salad.
Serving Suggestions
Cheese rice makes a delightful side dish for grilled chicken, pork chops, or roasted vegetables. It can also be served as a hearty vegetarian main dish topped with additional vegetables or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light soup or browsing more American recipes that focus on comfort food.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cheese rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to prevent drying out, cover, and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through. Alternatively, you can warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Rice contains roughly 465 calories, with 13g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (71% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1074mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it will require a longer cooking time, approximately 40-45 minutes. Make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly, using about 2 1/4 cups of water for every cup of brown rice.
What can I do if my cheese rice is too dry?
If your cheese rice turns out dry, try adding a small amount of water or milk while reheating. Stir it well to incorporate the liquid, which will help restore the creamy consistency. You can also add more cheese for extra moisture and flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! You can enhance the dish by mixing in cooked vegetables such as peas, bell peppers, or spinach. Just add them in when you stir in the cheese, allowing them to heat through and blend with the flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).