Cheesy Broccoli Rice Poppers
A comforting, cheesy one-pot dish combining fiber-rich brown rice and tender broccoli, enriched with creamy cheddar cheese and butter. Perfect as a vegetarian main or side dish, this recipe offers a quick, easy meal with minimal cleanup.
Equipment
- 1 large 5-quart pot (e.g., Calphalon)
- 1 Sharp Chef’s Knife
- Measuring cups (for dry and liquid ingredients)
- Airtight storage containers (for leftovers)
- Microwave-safe bowl with lid (for reheating)
Ingredients
- 1½ cups short-grain brown rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional
Instructions
- Prepare and Simmer Rice: Fill a large pot with 5 cups of water and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Partially cover the pot to retain some steam while preventing overboiling. Add the brown rice to the simmering water and cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The rice should be mostly tender, with some liquid still visible.
- Add Broccoli and Finish Cooking: Once the rice is nearly done, stir in the finely chopped broccoli florets. Cover the pot again and continue cooking for an additional 6 to 8 minutes. During this time, the broccoli will soften and the remaining liquid will be absorbed by the rice.
- Incorporate Butter and Cheese: Turn off the heat and stir in the butter, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and garlic powder if using. Mix thoroughly until the butter melts and the cheese blends smoothly into the rice and broccoli, creating a creamy texture.
- Let it Rest and Serve: Cover the pot once more and let the mixture rest off the heat for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set. Serve warm as a hearty side or a satisfying vegetarian main dish.
Notes
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. To reheat frozen portions, thaw slightly and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
- Rice Variations: If using a different type of rice, follow package instructions for water and cooking time, then add 1 cup of water when cooking broccoli.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter with olive or coconut oil, and swap cheddar cheese for mashed avocado to maintain creaminess while keeping the dish dairy-free.
- Using Frozen Broccoli: Feel free to use frozen broccoli florets directly—no need to chop. The texture may be softer but still delicious.
- Serving Ideas: Enhance with freshly cracked black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or even a fried egg on top for added protein and flavor.
