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One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake is a delightful comfort food that combines the rich flavors of cheese with the nutritional benefits of broccoli, making it a perfect dish for both adults and children alike. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its delicious taste but also in its convenience. With everything cooked in a single pan, it’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the inclusion of fresh broccoli, which adds a vibrant color and essential vitamins to your meal.

One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this One-Pan Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Bake! Combining creamy cheese and fresh broccoli, this dish is loved by both kids and adults alike. Perfect for busy weeknights, it all comes together in a single pan for easy cooking and cleanup. Packed with nutrients and flavor, this hearty bake is not only satisfying but also versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients to cater to your family's tastes. Enjoy this warm, delicious meal any night of the week!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option)

2 cups fresh broccoli florets (approximately 1 medium head)

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup heavy cream

Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it's ready for baking.

    Sauté the Base: In a large oven-safe skillet, drizzle in the olive oil and heat over medium. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it turns translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, until fragrant.

      Combine Ingredients: Fold in the uncooked rice, stirring it for about a minute to lightly toast it. Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by adding onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well until everything is uniformly combined.

        Add Broccoli: Gently fold in the fresh broccoli florets, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the rice mixture, allowing each bite to have that fresh flavor.

          Incorporate Cheese and Cream: Stir in the heavy cream for richness, then add the sharp cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything until it is well integrated and creamy.

            Bake: Smooth the top of the mixture with a spatula. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese generously on top for an extra gooey finish. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

              Final Touches: After the initial baking time, carefully remove the lid or foil and return the skillet to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the cheese to bubble up and turn golden brown. Check that the rice is completely cooked and the broccoli is tender.

                Serve: Once baked to perfection, take the skillet out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving. Enjoy your comforting, hearty dish!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4 servings