How to Make the Perfect Microwave Cheesy Broccoli Rice
American · Easy · 9 min · 2 servings
This cheesy broccoli rice uses instant rice and frozen broccoli to create a creamy and comforting dish entirely in the microwave. It comes together in under 10 minutes making it a perfect quick side dish or light main course.
Why this recipe works
This Microwave Cheesy Broccoli Rice recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 9 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 340 calories with 14g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 cup instant white rice
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup frozen broccoli florets
- 0.75 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.25 cup milk
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Combine instant rice and water in a large microwave-safe bowl. Cover and microwave on high for 5 minutes until the water is fully absorbed.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Scatter the frozen broccoli florets over the cooked rice, cover again, and microwave on high for 2 minutes until the broccoli is tender.
Step 3: Make It Cheesy
Stir in the milk, garlic powder, and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese melts completely into a creamy sauce coating the rice and broccoli.
Step 4: Serve Hot
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed, then serve immediately from the bowl.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- instant white rice → pre-cooked microwaveable rice pouches to save even more time
- cheddar cheese → Velveeta for an even smoother and creamier sauce
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not covering the bowl when cooking the rice which causes uneven cooking and dry spots in the rice
- Adding the cheese while the mixture is not hot enough which results in clumpy unmelted cheese
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 340 calories, 14g protein, 42g carbs, 13g fat, 4g fiber.
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