Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice: A Quick & Easy Comfort Food Recipe

Are you looking for a comforting, satisfying, and incredibly easy meal to make on a busy weeknight? Look no further! This Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice recipe is a game-changer. It’s creamy, cheesy, packed with the goodness of broccoli, and cooks entirely in the Instant Pot, saving you time and effort. Forget standing over the stove, stirring and watching – this recipe is virtually hands-off.

This dish is perfect as a side dish or a main course. You can easily customize it with your favorite protein, like shredded chicken, diced ham, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian boost. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will enjoy. Let’s dive into the magic of Instant Pot cooking and create this delicious cheesy broccoli rice!

Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice

* **Quick and Easy:** From prep to plate, this meal is ready in under 30 minutes.
* **One-Pot Wonder:** Minimal cleanup! Everything cooks in the Instant Pot.
* **Kid-Friendly:** The cheesy flavor and soft texture make it a hit with children.
* **Customizable:** Easily add protein or veggies to suit your taste.
* **Comfort Food:** Warm, creamy, and satisfying – perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of what you’ll need to create this delectable Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice:

* **1 tablespoon olive oil or butter:** Adds flavor and helps sauté the onions.
* **1 small yellow onion, chopped:** Provides a savory base.
* **2 cloves garlic, minced:** Adds a pungent aroma and flavor.
* **1 cup long-grain white rice:** Basmati or jasmine rice also work well.
* **2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth):** Adds flavor and cooks the rice.
* **1/2 teaspoon salt:** Enhances the flavors.
* **1/4 teaspoon black pepper:** Adds a subtle spice.
* **1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional):** Enhances the garlic flavor.
* **1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional):** Enhances the onion flavor.
* **2 cups broccoli florets, chopped:** Adds nutrition and texture.
* **1 cup shredded cheddar cheese:** Creates the cheesy goodness. You can also use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack.
* **1/2 cup milk or half-and-half:** Adds creaminess to the dish.
* **2 tablespoons butter (optional):** Adds extra richness and shine.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

* **Rice:** You can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time than white rice. Increase the cooking time to 22 minutes with a 10-minute natural pressure release.
* **Broth:** Vegetable broth can be substituted for chicken broth to make this dish vegetarian.
* **Cheese:** Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or Pepper Jack, for a unique flavor profile.
* **Vegetables:** Add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn for extra nutrients and flavor.
* **Protein:** Add cooked chicken, ham, sausage, or tofu to make it a complete meal.
* **Spice:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Equipment You’ll Need

* **Instant Pot (6-quart or larger):** This is the star of the show!
* **Measuring cups and spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.
* **Cutting board and knife:** For chopping the onion, garlic, and broccoli.
* **Wooden spoon or spatula:** For stirring the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create perfect Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice:

**Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics**

1. Turn on your Instant Pot and select the ‘Sauté’ function.
2. Add the olive oil or butter to the pot and let it melt.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

**Step 2: Add the Rice and Broth**

1. Add the rice to the Instant Pot and stir to coat it with the oil and onion mixture.
2. Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth).
3. Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and onion powder (if using).
4. Stir everything together to ensure the rice is evenly distributed.

**Step 3: Pressure Cook**

1. Secure the Instant Pot lid and make sure the valve is set to ‘Sealing’.
2. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ function and set the cooking time for 4 minutes.
3. The Instant Pot will take a few minutes to come to pressure.

**Step 4: Natural Pressure Release**

1. Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. This means you don’t touch the valve; just let it sit.
2. After 10 minutes, carefully release any remaining pressure by moving the valve to the ‘Venting’ position. Be cautious of the steam that will be released.

**Step 5: Add the Broccoli and Cheese**

1. Remove the lid from the Instant Pot.
2. Stir in the chopped broccoli florets. The residual heat will cook the broccoli to a tender-crisp consistency.
3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and milk (or half-and-half).
4. Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy and smooth.

**Step 6: Finish and Serve**

1. If desired, stir in the extra butter for added richness.
2. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or cheese depending on your preference.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice

* **Don’t overcook the rice:** Overcooked rice will be mushy. Stick to the recommended cooking time for the best results.
* **Use good quality cheese:** The quality of the cheese will affect the flavor of the dish. Use a good quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
* **Don’t skip the natural pressure release:** The natural pressure release helps the rice cook evenly and prevents it from being mushy.
* **Adjust the amount of liquid:** If you find that the rice is too dry, add a little more broth. If it’s too wet, cook it for a few more minutes on the ‘Sauté’ function with the lid off to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
* **Customize with your favorite toppings:** Add your favorite toppings, such as chopped green onions, bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream, for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways:

* **Side Dish:** Serve it as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, or fish.
* **Main Course:** Add cooked chicken, ham, sausage, or tofu to make it a complete meal.
* **Lunch:** Pack it in a lunchbox for a satisfying and easy-to-eat lunch.
* **Potluck:** Bring it to a potluck or gathering. It’s sure to be a hit!

Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* **Reheat:** Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add a splash of milk or broth if needed to rehydrate the rice.
* **Freeze:** While not ideal due to the dairy content, you can freeze it. The texture may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information (approximate)

* Calories: Approximately 350-400 per serving (depending on ingredients and portion size)
* Protein: 15-20g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Fat: 15-20g

*Note: This is just an estimate. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

Recipe Card

**Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice**

A quick and easy comfort food recipe made entirely in the Instant Pot!

**Prep Time:** 10 minutes
**Cook Time:** 14 minutes
**Total Time:** 24 minutes

**Yields:** 6 servings

**Ingredients:**

* 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
* 1 small yellow onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup long-grain white rice
* 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
* 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
* 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
* 2 tablespoons butter (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Turn on your Instant Pot and select the ‘Sauté’ function. Add the olive oil or butter and let it melt.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the rice to the Instant Pot and stir to coat. Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth). Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and onion powder (if using).
4. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to ‘Sealing’. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ function and set the cooking time for 4 minutes.
5. Once the cooking time is up, let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally for 10 minutes. Then, carefully release any remaining pressure.
6. Remove the lid from the Instant Pot. Stir in the chopped broccoli florets.
7. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and milk (or half-and-half). Stir until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
8. If desired, stir in the extra butter for added richness. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve immediately.

**Notes:**

* For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth.
* Add cooked chicken, ham, sausage, or tofu for a complete meal.
* Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Cheesy Broccoli Rice recipe is a winner! It’s a delicious, easy, and customizable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting side dish, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below! Happy cooking!