Cheesy Rice Casserole

If you’re seeking a comforting and delicious dish to warm up those chilly evenings or looking for a crowd-pleasing side to impress your guests, look no further than this Cheesy Rice Casserole recipe. This easy-to-make casserole combines the creamy goodness of cheese with the heartiness of rice, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a side dish, this cheesy rice casserole is sure to become a household favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe!

**Cheesy Rice Casserole**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups of white rice
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of diced onions
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of butter
– 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, and cook until they are softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the Parmesan cheese is already salty.
7. In a separate pot, cook the white rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and add it to the cheese sauce. Mix well to combine.
8. Transfer the cheesy rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
10. Remove the foil and sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
11. Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
12. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

This Cheesy Rice Casserole is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite proteins. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal that comes together quickly. The creamy cheese sauce combined with fluffy rice makes for a decadent and comforting bite that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Make it for your next family dinner or potluck, and watch it disappear in no time. Enjoy this delightful dish and share the warmth and comfort with your loved ones.