Introduction
If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty dish that combines wholesome ingredients and loads of flavor, look no further than this Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake. This one-pan wonder brings together tender broccoli florets, perfectly cooked rice, and an irresistible blend of cheeses, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a delightful side dish for your family gatherings, this recipe not only satisfies the taste buds but also packs in essential nutrients, making it a winner for both kids and adults alike.
With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, this skillet bake is a breeze to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying delicious food with loved ones. So, grab your skillet, and let’s dive into this cheesy, veggie-packed delight that’s sure to become a staple in your home!
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked rice (long grain or jasmine)
- 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 chopped
- 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, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
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- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring it well with the onion and garlic for about 2 minutes to toast the rice slightly.
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- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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- Once simmering, cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes until the rice is tender, and most of the liquid is absorbed.
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- While the rice is cooking, blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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- After 15 minutes, remove the skillet from heat and stir in the blanched broccoli, sour cream, and milk until well combined.
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- Fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, mixing until everything is evenly combined.
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- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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- Top the mixture in the skillet with grated Parmesan cheese.
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- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.
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- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake!
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 40 min | Servings: 4
Key Ingredients
- Broccoli: Fresh or frozen, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- Rice: Long-grain white or brown rice, cooked.
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded, for a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Cream Cheese: Softened, to create a creamy texture.
- Garlic: Minced, for added depth of flavor.
- Onion: Diced, to enhance the overall taste.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth: For cooking the rice and adding moisture.
- Olive Oil or Butter: For sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, enhancing the flavors of the dish.
- Optional Toppings: Breadcrumbs or additional cheese for a crispy finish.
Baking Process
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake will cook evenly.
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Prepare Your Skillet: In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the mixture to a baking dish later.
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Cook the Aromatics: Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
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Add Rice and Broccoli: Stir in 1 cup of uncooked rice and 2 cups of chopped broccoli florets. Mix them well with the onions and garlic to ensure everything is evenly coated.
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Incorporate Liquids: Pour in 2 ½ cups of vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This will allow the rice to start absorbing the flavors.
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Season: Add salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings you desire, such as paprika or Italian herbs, mixing well.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is nearly cooked through and most of the liquid is absorbed.
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Cheese It Up: Once the rice is tender, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) until it’s melted and evenly distributed throughout the rice and broccoli.
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Bake: If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with an additional ½ cup of cheese for that extra melty goodness. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
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Garnish and Serve: Once baked, allow it to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy broccoli and rice bake!
With this simple baking process, you’ll have a deliciously cheesy and wholesome dish perfect for a comforting meal!
Serving Suggestions
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Pair with Protein: Serve the Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a balanced meal. The savory flavors of the bake complement a variety of proteins beautifully.
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Fresh Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad can brighten up the dish. Consider a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette, or a classic Caesar salad to add some crunch and freshness.
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Garlic Bread: For a comforting touch, serve with warm garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks. The buttery, garlicky taste pairs perfectly with the cheesy goodness of the bake.
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Roasted Vegetables: Add a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. The caramelized flavors will enhance the overall meal and add a colorful touch to your plate.
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Sour Cream or Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of each serving can add a creamy tang that elevates the dish even further.
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Hot Sauce or Salsa: If you enjoy a bit of heat, drizzling hot sauce or adding a spoonful of salsa can give your Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake a spicy kick.
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Herb Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or basil over the top before serving. This not only adds color but also a burst of fresh flavor that enhances the dish.
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Make It a Meal: For a complete meal in one dish, serve your Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake directly from the pan with a side of crusty bread or a warm, fluffy biscuit to soak up all the cheesy goodness.
Enjoy your delicious creation while exploring these serving suggestions to make your dining experience even more delightful!
Conclusion
This Skillet Cheesy Broccoli & Rice Bake is not just a simple side dish; it’s a delightful one-pan meal that brings together the comforting flavors of creamy cheese and wholesome broccoli. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a satisfying accompaniment to your favorite protein, this recipe is quick to prepare and can easily accommodate personal twists—just add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own.
Not only is it delicious, but it’s also an excellent way to sneak in some extra greens, making it a great option for families looking to eat healthier. Plus, the ease of cleanup with a skillet means you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen, loved by both kids and adults alike! Happy cooking!
