Skillet Broccoli-Cheddar Rice

Name: Skillet Broccoli-Cheddar Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 yellow onion, finely chopped; 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced; 1 large head broccoli, stem coarsely chopped, florets cut into 1-inch pieces; Salt; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 4 ounces grated, sharp Cheddar (1 cup); Hot sauce, for serving, optional

By Ali Slagle

Published September 17, 2025

Linda Xiao for The New York Times. Food Stylist: Sue Li.

Ready In: 45 min
Rating: (0)
Comments: Read comments

While this weeknight-friendly recipe has the DNA of a broccoli-rice casserole, each element shines on its own: The rice is buttered and oniony sweet; the broccoli florets are tender, still-green and not mushy; and the cheese is broiled on top for a mix of gooey and crisp bites. Together, they make a dish that’s tempting enough to eat on its own. Or to make it a fuller meal, eat it alongside rotisserie chicken or pork chops or stir in a drained can of beans or tuna when you stir the rice.

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Ingredients

Yield:4 servings

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 yellow onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1 large head broccoli, stem coarsely chopped, florets cut into 1-inch pieces
Salt
1 cup long-grain white rice
4 ounces grated, sharp Cheddar (1 cup)
Hot sauce, for serving, optional

Ingredient Substitution Guide

Preparation

Step 1
In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe skillet with a lid, melt the butter over medium. Add the onion, garlic and chopped broccoli stem, season with salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened but not browned, 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 2
Add the rice and 1¾ cups water. Season with salt (about 1 teaspoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt). Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 3
After the rice has cooked for 10 minutes, working quickly, scatter the broccoli florets on top of the rice and season with a pinch of salt. Cover and cook until the rice is tender and the broccoli is bright green, another 8 to 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and let rest covered for about 5 minutes.
Step 4
Meanwhile, arrange a rack near the broiler and heat the broiler to high. Gently stir the broccoli and rice, then sprinkle with cheese. Broil until melted and golden in spots, 2 to 4 minutes. Serve with a dash of hot sauce, if you like.

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