Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 medium zucchinis, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2% recommended)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Rice:
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions until it's fluffy and fully cooked. Set it aside.
Sauté the Zucchini and Onion:
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced zucchini and finely chopped onion.
- Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Remove the zucchini and onion mixture from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the roux is lightly golden.
Add Milk and Cheese:
- Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
Combine Zucchini, Rice, and Cheese Sauce:
- Return the sautéed zucchini and onion to the skillet with the cheese sauce.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet as well.
- Gently fold everything together until the zucchini, rice, and cheese sauce are well combined and heated through.
Serve:
- Serve your Cheesy Zucchini Rice Bowl hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
This Cheesy Zucchini Rice Bowl is a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The creamy cheese sauce complements the sautéed zucchini and rice beautifully, making it a satisfying and cheesy delight. Enjoy!