Flavorful Cheesy Zucchini Rice with Garlic Butter
A quick, cheesy side dish with tender zucchini, garlic-infused rice, and melted cheese, perfect for weeknight dinners or a comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 medium zucchini, grated or finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Grate zucchini and mince garlic.
- Melt butter or heat olive oil in a saucepan; sauté garlic 30–60 seconds.
- Add rice and toast 1–2 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Pour in broth; bring to boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 15 minutes.
- Fold in zucchini and cook 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Stir in cheddar or mozzarella until melted; sprinkle Parmesan and parsley.
- Fluff gently and serve warm.