When you crave a meal that is warm, hearty, and undeniably comforting, nothing hits the spot quite like a bowl of One-Pan Cheesy Rice and Broccoli. This dish delivers all the creamy, cheesy satisfaction of a casserole, but with minimal prep, fewer dishes, and in a fraction of the time. Perfect for weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you need an easy win in the kitchen, this recipe is a flavorful way to enjoy wholesome ingredients in a single skillet.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pan Wonder
This cheesy rice and broccoli dish is a true comfort classic with modern convenience. It’s fast, customizable, and loaded with both flavor and nutrition. Using just one pan for everything means less mess and more flavor, as all the ingredients cook together and blend beautifully.
Top Benefits:
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Only one pan needed – fast cooking and easy cleanup
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Kid-friendly and picky-eater approved
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Budget-friendly ingredients
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Ready in under 30 minutes
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Easy to adapt for vegetarians or meat-lovers alike
Whether served as a standalone main or as a cozy side dish, this meal is a surefire family favorite.
Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Rice and Broccoli
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Main Ingredients:
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1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
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½ cup onion, finely chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup long grain white rice
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2 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
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2 cups broccoli florets, chopped small
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
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½ cup milk (or heavy cream for extra creaminess)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
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¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional but adds depth)
Optional Add-Ins:
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Cooked chicken, ham, or bacon for protein
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Parmesan cheese for an umami boost
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Hot sauce or chili flakes for heat
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Frozen peas or corn for color and sweetness
How to Make One-Pan Cheesy Rice and Broccoli
1. Sauté the Aromatics
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Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and translucent.
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Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Toast the Rice
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Add the rice to the pan and stir well to coat the grains in the oil.
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Let it toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This adds a slightly nutty flavor and helps prevent mushy texture.
3. Simmer with Broth
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Pour in the broth, season with salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder if using.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
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Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring once or twice.
4. Add the Broccoli
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After 10 minutes of cooking, add the chopped broccoli directly to the skillet.
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Stir it into the rice, cover again, and let cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until both rice and broccoli are tender.
5. Stir in the Cheese and Milk
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Once everything is fully cooked, lower the heat.
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Stir in milk and shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
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Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
Cheesy Rice and Broccoli: Nutrition Breakdown
This meal doesn’t just taste amazing—it’s also packed with nutrients:
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Broccoli is high in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants
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Rice provides energy-boosting carbs and a blank canvas for flavor
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Cheese and milk offer calcium and protein
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Additions like chicken or beans can bump up the protein content even further
With balanced macros and plenty of fiber, this meal is both comforting and nourishing.
Customization Ideas to Make It Your Own
One of the best parts of this dish is its versatility. You can easily tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs:
Make It Vegetarian:
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Use vegetable broth and skip the meat
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Add more veggies like mushrooms, peas, spinach, or zucchini
Add Protein:
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Stir in grilled chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken, or diced ham
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Add a fried or poached egg on top for extra richness
Make It Vegan:
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Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based milk
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Stick with vegetable broth
Add Crunch or Garnish:
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Top with toasted breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or roasted nuts
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Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions before serving
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
This dish stores well and makes for great leftovers.
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Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days
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Reheat in a microwave or skillet with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess
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Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months
Great for meal prepping ahead of a busy week!
Serving Suggestions
While this recipe can shine on its own, it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and mains:
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Serve alongside grilled chicken or roasted salmon
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Add a green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast
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Enjoy with warm crusty bread or garlic toast
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Spoon into bell peppers or hollowed tomatoes, then bake for a stuffed veggie twist
Conclusion
This One-Pan Cheesy Rice and Broccoli dish is everything you want in a comforting meal—creamy, cheesy, wholesome, and fast. With just one skillet and a handful of pantry staples, you can have a nourishing and deeply satisfying dinner on the table in half an hour. Whether you're cooking for a family or just yourself, this recipe delivers simplicity and comfort in every bite.
