Cheesy Rice with Broccoli

This recipe is so cheesy, comforting and delicious! It is the perfect side dish that will go great with so many entrees.  The first time I made this I didn’t cook my rice long enough, but I didn’t realize it until I had added the cheese and everything and it was too late to save it really.  So I made it again and this time I made sure to check my rice before I added anything and it turned out fabulous!! We have the Broccoli Cheese Rice from the Green Giant Steamer bag from time to time and this was so much better! And it is really easy to make.  This will definitely be a go-to side dish of mine from now on!

Cheesy Rice with Broccoli
Source: Pink Parsley adapted from Comfort of Cooking, originally from Real Simple

Ingredients:
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 Tbs butter
1 1/2  to 2 cups frozen broccoli, finely chopped
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
salt and pepper, to taste

Directions:
In a medium saucepan, add broth and bring to a boil.  Add in rice, cover and reduce to low heat.  Cook for approximately 20 minutes until almost all the liquid has absorbed. (Taste test rice to make sure it is fully cooked, if rice is still crunchy, add a bit of water and continue to cook until rice is soft).

Meanwhile, briefly run the broccoli under cold water to slightly soften so you can chop it up.  Chop the broccoli into very small pieces until you have approximately 1 1/2 to 2 cups.

Remove rice from heat and add in the butter and broccoli.  Cover and allow to stand for 5 minutes.  Remove cover and stir to combine.  Add in cheese, salt & pepper & stir to combine.