When you’re in need of a meal that’s comforting, easy to prepare and delicious, there are few pairings as universally loved as cheese and rice. The creamy, savory richness of cheese perfectly complements the hearty texture of rice, making this duo a staple in comfort food dishes. From classic risotto to gooey rice bakes and even quick rice bowls, the possibilities are endless when these two ingredients come together.
Best Rice and Cheese Recipes to Try
Cheese brings not only bold flavor to dishes, but a satisfying texture and creaminess that can transform a simple rice dish into something special. And because rice is such a versatile base, it’s easy to mix and match with different cheeses and ingredients to create meals that fit your cravings, whether you’re in the mood for something rich and hearty or light and flavorful.
Best of all, with Minute® rice, preparing cheesy rice recipes is quick, simple and stress-free. Ready in minutes, Minute rice makes it easy to whip up comforting meals without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for your family, bringing an appetizer to a dinner party or just need a fast weeknight dinner, these cheesy rice recipes prove that delicious comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Simple Cheesy Rice Recipes to Try
Here are some cheesy rice recipes to get you started! From classics like risotto to fun, cheesy appetizers and unique dishes like rice bakes, there’s something for everyone to love.
Cheesy Rice “Mac” and Cheese in a Cup
Start simple with cheesy rice recipes with this “Mac” and Cheese in a Cup, a take on a comfort food classic that you can prepare in the microwave. The “mac” in this recipe is replaced with a Minute Jasmine Rice Cup, then mixed together with a decadent combination of cheddar cheese, milk, cream cheese and garlic powder for a gooey and delicious meal ready in just five minutes.
Creamy Blue Cheese Risotto: A Rice and Cheese Classic
When it comes to the pairing of rice and cheese, risotto is a classic. Risotto is an Italian dish made with rice cooked in broth, then finished with cheese. This Creamy Blue Cheese Risotto is a simple version you can make right at home with Minute Instant White Rice. Featuring crispy bacon, mushrooms, Parmesan cheese and blue cheese, you’ll be surprised that such a decadent, restaurant-quality dish can be made in your own kitchen.
Cheesy Rice Bowl: Green Goddess Rice Bowl with Burrata
Enjoy cheese and rice along with the freshness of crisp veggies in this Green Goddess Rice Bowl with Burrata. This rice bowl starts with a nutty and delicious Minute Brown Rice Cup, topped with spinach, cucumber, avocado, chives and burrata. Everything is drizzled with green goddess dressing, which you can purchase at the store or make your own version with Greek yogurt, fresh herbs, olive oil and apple cider vinegar. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s easily customizable—swap out the vegetables with what you have in your fridge, top with a protein like grilled chicken or even switch burrata with mozzarella cheese if you prefer.
Cheesy Chicken and Rice Bowl with Manchego
If you’re looking for a cheesy rice bowl, this Chicken and Manchego Cheese Rice Bowl is easy to prepare in just five minutes—ideal for a lunch or quick dinner. It starts with a Minute Yellow Rice Cup, which is seasoned with onion powder, garlic powder and turmeric to act as a flavorful base to this bowl. Then, add in cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, peas, red peppers and Manchego cheese for a delicious combination of Spanish-inspired ingredients.
Spicy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Bowl
Check out this Spicy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Rice Bowl for another easy rice bowl to satisfy your cheesy rice craving. It only requires six common ingredients that you may already have on hand, and just a few minutes to prepare. The Minute Jalapeño Rice Cup adds just the right amount of kick to this bowl, combined with crispy bacon, lettuce, tomatoes, ranch dressing and, of course, plenty of cheese.
Cheesy Rice and Herb Balls
These Herb Cheese Balls are a cheesy rice appetizer everyone is sure to love, and it only takes 6 minutes of hands-on preparation! These flavor-packed rice balls are a mixture of Minute Yellow Rice Cups, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, lemon zest, Dijon mustard and fresh herbs like parsley, chives and thyme—all rolled together in a flavor-packed ball. After rolling the balls in a coating of toasted bread crumbs, simply place them in the refrigerator for an hour to set, and you’re ready to enjoy this easy, cheesy appetizer.
Cheesy Kimchi Rice Bake
For a unique spin on classic cheese and rice, try this Cheesy Kimchi Rice Bake from recipe creator Purely Healthy Living. This dish combines Minute Brown Rice Cups with Asian flavors like sriracha, rice vinegar and soy sauce. The rice is then placed in baking dishes and topped with Japanese mayonnaise, kimchi and shredded cheese before baking in the oven. Garnish with sriracha, green onions and sesame seeds and you’re ready to enjoy this gooey, cheesy rice bake!
Cheesy Chicken Rice & Quinoa Bake
For a cheesy and comforting meal perfect to feed the family on busy weeknights, try this Cheesy Chicken Rice & Quinoa Bake from recipe creator Clair Cook. The bake includes chicken, Minute Instant Rice & Quinoa and a homemade cheese sauce made with cheese, butter, onions, garlic, chicken broth and milk. Everything gets combined and baked together, with the Minute Instant Rice & Quinoa absorbing all of the decadent cheesy flavors as it bakes.
Cheesy Rice & Broccoli Fritters
The classic combination of cheese and broccoli comes together in a fun new way with these Cheesy Rice & Broccoli Fritters by recipe creator JC Phelps. After preparing Minute Yellow Rice Cups in the microwave, combine the rice with steamed broccoli, shredded cheese, eggs, breadcrumbs and seasonings and shape them into fritters. Then, simply fry them in a pan until brown on both sides and enjoy alongside your favorite dipping sauce! These fritters are perfect to satisfy your cheesy rice craving in a new fun way.
Lemon Dill Basmati with Cranberries, Pistachios and Goat Cheese
With bright citrus flavors, tart cranberries, crunchy pistachios and creamy goat cheese, this Lemon Dill Basmati with Cranberries, Pistachios and Goat Cheese is packed with plenty of flavor and texture. Using Minute Instant Basmati Rice, it takes under 10 minutes to prepare—perfect for a cheesy rice weeknight dinner. The dish stands out on its own, but you can also pair it with grilled chicken or another protein.
Cheesy Rice Recipes for Every Craving
When you’re in the mood for a meal that’s comforting and hearty, cheese and rice are the ultimate combination—simple, satisfying and endlessly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal on the go, a decadent dinner or a fun appetizer for your next dinner party, there’s a delicious cheesy rice recipe for every occasion. Plus, with Minute rice, you can enjoy cheesy, homemade comfort food in a fraction of the time, giving you more moments to savor and less time in the kitchen. No matter the occasion, these recipes prove that when cheese meets rice, you’ve got a winning dish every time.
Cheesy Rice FAQs
Q: What are the best cheeses for rice recipes?
A: Cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Monterey Jack are all great choices for cheesy rice recipes. Each melts differently, so you can pick based on what you’re going for—try Monterey Jack for a creamy sauce, mozzarella for a gooey pull or an aged cheddar for a sharp bite.
Q: Can I make cheesy rice recipes in the microwave?
A: Yes. Using Minute Rice Cups, you can make rice and cheese recipes in just minutes. Heat the rice, stir in your cheese of choice, and add extras like veggies or protein for a complete meal.
Q: What meals can I make with rice and cheese?
A: Cheesy rice works in quick bowls, casseroles, stuffed peppers, fritters, or even as a side dish. From cheesy rice bakes to rice and cheese appetizers, the options are endless.
Q: How do I keep cheesy rice creamy instead of clumpy?
A: Use freshly heated Minute rice, melt cheese gradually, and add a splash of milk or broth. Stirring often helps the cheese coat every grain of rice for a smooth, creamy texture.
