Cheesy Zucchini Rice

Looking for a quick and delicious side dish that hides some healthy veggies? Cheesy Zucchini Rice is the answer! With tender, fluffy rice cooked in chicken broth, melted sharp cheddar cheese, and hidden shredded zucchini, this dish is a great way to sneak in some greens while satisfying your craving for comfort food. Perfect for kids or anyone who’s not too keen on eating their veggies, it’s sure to become a go-to meal addition!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Zucchini Rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with almost any main course. The cheesy, creamy texture makes it irresistible, while the shredded zucchini blends in seamlessly, adding nutrients without affecting the taste. It’s the perfect solution when you want to make your meals both delicious and nutritious. Plus, it only takes 25 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy choice for busy weeknights!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 medium zucchini, shredded

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Splash of milk (as needed)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.

2. Add the rice and stir to coat. Toast the rice, stirring often, just until it starts to turn golden.

3. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Cook, covered, for 15 minutes.

4. Remove from heat and quickly add the butter, shredded zucchini, cheddar cheese, and garlic powder.

5. Cover and let the rice sit for 10 minutes. This step allows the steam to help melt the cheese and soften the zucchini.

6. Uncover the rice, stir well to combine, and add salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a thinner texture, add a splash of milk and stir.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Add More Veggies: You can sneak in even more veggies like shredded carrots, spinach, or peas for added color and nutrition.

• Use Different Cheese: Swap the sharp cheddar for a milder cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

• Make it Creamy: For an extra creamy version, stir in a bit of cream cheese or sour cream along with the butter and cheese.

• Add Protein: Turn this dish into a more filling meal by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or ground beef.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover Cheesy Zucchini Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk to bring back its creamy texture, or warm it up on the stovetop over low heat.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but the cooking time will be longer. Brown rice usually requires about 40-45 minutes to cook, so you’ll need to adjust accordingly and possibly add more broth.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth or water, and it will still taste delicious.

Can I freeze this rice?

Yes, you can freeze this Cheesy Zucchini Rice. Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk if necessary.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, you can substitute the butter with olive oil, and the cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative. For creaminess, add a bit of coconut milk or almond milk.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer—Gruyère, Parmesan, or even a cheese blend would work wonderfully.

How do I prevent the rice from being too dry?

If the rice seems dry after cooking, add a little extra broth or a splash of milk when stirring in the cheese and zucchini to help make it creamy.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or some finely chopped fresh chili peppers to the mix.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, you can add protein like cooked chicken, turkey, or even beans to turn this side dish into a more substantial meal.

What can I serve with this dish?

Cheesy Zucchini Rice pairs well with grilled chicken or fish. It also goes great with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Just reheat it with a splash of milk before serving.

Conclusion

Cheesy Zucchini Rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that makes it easy to incorporate veggies into your meal without anyone noticing. The cheesy goodness and the mild sweetness of the zucchini make this a dish that everyone will love, and it’s easy to customize with different cheeses, veggies, or proteins. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it a meal, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite!

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