mexican cheesy rice recipe

mexican cheesy rice recipe

The Best mexican cheesy rice recipe

I am so excited to share with you my favorite Mexican Cheesy Rice recipe. This dish is a staple in our household and has been a hit with my family and friends.

The combination of flavors and textures is simply amazing, and I just can’t get enough of it. The dish originated in Mexico, where it’s known as ‘Arroz con Queso,’ and has been adapted and modified over the years to become the delicious recipe we know and love today.

One of the key techniques in making this recipe is using a mixture of long-grain rice and short-grain rice, which gives it a unique texture and flavor. This technique may seem simple, but it makes all the difference in the world.

I’ve tried various methods for cooking the rice, but I’ve found that using a combination of sautéing and steaming results in perfectly cooked rice every time. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a big gathering or just want a quick and easy meal for your family.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize it to your taste by adding your favorite ingredients or spices. Not only is this recipe delicious, but it’s also relatively healthy compared to other cheesy rice recipes out there.

The secret ingredient? Using low-fat cheese and limiting the amount of oil used in cooking the dish.

Mexican Cheesy Rice

Mexican Cheesy Rice

4.5 from 1730 votes

This Mexican cheesy rice is a creamy, flavorful side dish made with long grain rice, tomatoes, and a blend of melted cheeses. It is perfect for serving alongside tacos, burritos, or grilled meats, and it comes together in under an hour.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Rice

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup long grain white rice, rinsed and drained
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cheese

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent.
3Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil.
5Toast the rice for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grains start to turn lightly golden and smell nutty.
6Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
7Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
8Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer for 18 to 20 minutes.
9Do not lift the lid during cooking, and check that the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid before proceeding.
10Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the hot rice.
11Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely.
12Fluff the rice with a fork, gently mixing the melted cheese throughout.
13Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve hot.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Grater (if shredding cheese)
Fork

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 16g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 13g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier version, add a minced jalapeño with the onion. You can substitute brown rice, but increase the cooking time to about 40 minutes and add 1/4 cup more broth. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Mexican Cheesy Rice Works

This Mexican Cheesy Rice recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a party or just want a quick and easy meal for your family. It’s incredibly versatile, so feel free to customize it to your taste by adding your favorite ingredients or spices.

Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to other cheesy rice recipes out there due to using low-fat cheese and limiting oil usage during cooking. For storage ideas, consider freezing individual portions or storing leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge.

When reheating leftover cheesy rice, make sure to reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to kill off any bacteria that may have formed during storage.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Cheesy Rice

Q1: What type of cheese should I use in this recipe?

A great question! You can use either cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese in this recipe, depending on your personal preference. If you want a stronger flavor, go with cheddar; if you prefer a milder taste, opt for Monterey Jack.

Q2: Can I substitute other types of rice for long-grain rice?

Sure thing! While long-grain rice works best in this recipe, you can use other types of rice like jasmine or basmati if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Q3: How do I store leftover cheesy rice?

A great question! If you have leftover cheesy rice, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months.

Q4: Can I reheat leftover cheesy rice safely?

Safety first! Yes, you can reheat leftover cheesy rice safely as long as you follow proper food safety guidelines. Make sure to reheat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to kill off any bacteria that may have formed during storage.

Q5: Is Mexican Cheesy Rice gluten-free?

A yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.

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