One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Rice Recipe

Honestly, when weeknights roll around, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. Between work, kids, and everything else life throws our way, dinner needs to be quick, easy, and – most importantly – something the whole family will actually eat without complaint. That’s where this One-Pot Cheesy Zucchini Rice recipe comes in. I stumbled upon it during a desperate search for a way to use up the mountain of zucchini from my garden, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer. Even my pickiest eater, who usually turns his nose up at anything green, devours this cheesy rice. The creamy texture and mild zucchini flavor blend together so seamlessly, it’s pure comfort food in a bowl. Plus, the fact that it’s all made in one pot? Cleanup is a breeze! If you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and family-approved meal, you absolutely have to try this. It’s become a regular in our rotation, and I have a feeling it will in yours too.

Ingredients

For this incredibly satisfying and easy One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Rice, you’ll need a handful of simple, readily available ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way these common ingredients come together to create something truly special. Let’s break down each component and understand why they are essential for achieving that perfect creamy, cheesy, and flavorful rice dish. Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the taste even further, making this humble dish a real star.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Olive oil forms the foundation of our flavor base. It’s used to sauté the aromatics and toast the rice, adding a subtle richness and depth to the overall dish. You can also use other neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil if you prefer, but olive oil lends a lovely Mediterranean touch. Extra virgin olive oil is ideal for its flavor, but regular olive oil works just as well for cooking.
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Onion is a foundational aromatic in countless savory dishes, and this recipe is no exception. When sautéed in olive oil, it releases its sweet and pungent flavors, creating a savory base for the rice. Yellow onions are preferred for their balanced flavor that becomes sweeter as they cook. Finely chopping the onion ensures it cooks evenly and blends seamlessly into the rice.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is another essential aromatic that adds a pungent and robust flavor to the dish. Its sharp, slightly spicy notes complement the sweetness of the onion and the mildness of the zucchini. Minced garlic infuses the oil and the rice with its aroma, creating a complex flavor profile. Fresh garlic is always recommended for the best flavor, but in a pinch, you can use pre-minced garlic from a jar.
• 1 ½ cups long-grain rice, uncooked: Long-grain rice is the star of the show! Its fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors make it perfect for this one-pot recipe. Long-grain rice, such as basmati or jasmine, will cook beautifully without becoming mushy. Avoid using short-grain rice or risotto rice, as they have a higher starch content and will result in a stickier texture, which is not desired for this particular dish. Rinsing the rice is optional but can help remove excess starch for an even fluffier result.
• 3 cups vegetable broth: Vegetable broth provides the liquid base for cooking the rice and infuses it with savory flavor. Using broth instead of water significantly enhances the overall taste of the dish. Vegetable broth complements the zucchini and cheese beautifully, creating a vegetarian-friendly and flavorful meal. Low-sodium broth is recommended to control the salt level, and you can always adjust seasoning later. Chicken broth can also be used if you are not strictly vegetarian, adding a richer, meatier dimension.
• 2 medium zucchini, diced: Zucchini is the namesake vegetable of this dish, adding a mild, slightly sweet, and refreshing flavor. It also contributes moisture and a lovely tender texture. Dicing the zucchini into small, bite-sized pieces ensures it cooks evenly and distributes throughout the rice. You can use either green or yellow zucchini, or a combination of both for visual appeal. Smaller zucchini tend to be less watery and have fewer seeds.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese is the key to the “cheesy” in our cheesy zucchini rice. Its sharp and tangy flavor melts beautifully into the rice, creating a creamy and comforting texture. Shredded cheddar cheese melts evenly and quickly. You can use mild, medium, or sharp cheddar depending on your preference for cheese intensity. Pre-shredded cheese is convenient, but shredding your own cheese from a block often results in better melting and flavor.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty, and umami-rich flavor to the dish, enhancing the overall cheesy profile. It also provides a slightly firmer texture compared to cheddar. Grated Parmesan melts into the rice, adding a subtle complexity. Freshly grated Parmesan is always superior in flavor compared to pre-grated varieties. For a vegetarian option, ensure your Parmesan cheese is made with vegetable rennet.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram, adding a classic Mediterranean flavor profile to the dish. It complements the zucchini, cheese, and garlic perfectly, enhancing the overall aroma and taste. Dried Italian seasoning is readily available and convenient. If you prefer fresh herbs, you can use a combination of fresh oregano, basil, and thyme, adding them towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
• Salt and black pepper to taste: Salt and black pepper are essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in the dish. Salt brings out the natural sweetness of the zucchini and the savory notes of the cheese and broth. Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice. Seasoning to taste is crucial, as preferences vary. Start with a teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and adjust as needed after tasting the cooked rice. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for its superior flavor.
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness, color, and herbaceousness as a garnish. It brightens up the dish visually and adds a subtle peppery flavor. Chopped fresh parsley is sprinkled over the finished dish just before serving. Other fresh herbs like chives or basil can also be used for garnish, depending on your preference.

Instructions

Making this One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Rice is incredibly straightforward and perfect for busy weeknights. The beauty of a one-pot recipe is that it minimizes cleanup and simplifies the cooking process without sacrificing flavor. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will love. Each step is designed to build layers of flavor and ensure perfectly cooked, cheesy, and flavorful rice.

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Sautéing the onion first releases its sweetness and creates a flavorful base for the dish. Don’t rush this step; allowing the onions to soften properly is crucial for building flavor.
2. Add Garlic and Italian Seasoning: Add the minced garlic and dried Italian seasoning to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Cooking the garlic and Italian seasoning in the oil releases their aromas and infuses the oil, which will then flavor the rice. This step is essential for adding depth and complexity to the dish.
3. Toast the Rice: Add the uncooked long-grain rice to the pot and stir to coat it with the oil and aromatics. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice grains are slightly translucent around the edges. Toasting the rice enhances its nutty flavor and helps it cook more evenly. This step also prevents the rice from becoming too mushy during cooking. You’ll notice a subtle change in the aroma and appearance of the rice as it toasts.
4. Add Broth and Zucchini: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced zucchini. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and ensure the rice is evenly distributed in the broth. The broth will provide the liquid necessary to cook the rice and infuse it with savory flavor. Adding the zucchini at this stage allows it to cook along with the rice, becoming tender and flavorful.
5. Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid is absorbed. It’s crucial to keep the lid on during simmering to trap steam and ensure the rice cooks evenly. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking as much as possible, as this releases steam and can prolong the cooking time. The rice is done when it is tender and all the broth has been absorbed.
6. Stir in Cheese: Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and become perfectly fluffy. Then, remove the lid and gently stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until they are melted and evenly distributed throughout the rice. The residual heat from the rice will melt the cheese beautifully, creating a creamy and cheesy texture. Stir gently to avoid breaking the rice grains.
7. Season and Serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir again to combine and taste to adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Taste the rice to ensure it’s seasoned to your liking. Serve immediately while it’s hot and cheesy for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts

This One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Rice is not only delicious and easy to make, but it also offers a good balance of nutrients. While it’s definitely comfort food, it incorporates vegetables and whole grains, making it a more wholesome option than some other cheesy dishes. Keep in mind that nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories (estimated)

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving (Estimated):

• Protein: 12-15g
• Fat: 15-20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8-10g (from cheese)
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g
  • Fiber: 3-4g
  • Sugar: 5-7g (naturally occurring in vegetables and dairy)
• Sodium: 500-700mg (depending on broth and cheese)

Important Notes:

• These values are estimations and can vary.
• Using low-sodium broth and reduced-fat cheese can help lower sodium and fat content.
• Adding more vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, can increase fiber and vitamin content.
• This dish provides a good source of carbohydrates, protein (from cheese), and some vitamins and minerals from zucchini and other ingredients.

Preparation Time

One of the biggest advantages of this One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Rice recipe is its speed and simplicity. From start to finish, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Let’s break down the preparation and cooking times to give you a clear idea of how quickly this recipe comes together.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Chopping onion and zucchini: 5 minutes
  • Mincing garlic: 2 minutes
  • Measuring ingredients (rice, broth, cheese, seasonings): 8 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Sautéing aromatics and toasting rice: 8 minutes
  • Simmering rice with broth and zucchini: 18-20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes

Timeline Breakdown:

• 0-15 minutes: Prepare ingredients (chop vegetables, measure spices, etc.).
• 15-23 minutes: Sauté aromatics, toast rice, add broth and zucchini, bring to a boil.
• 23-43 minutes: Simmer rice, covered, until cooked through.
• 43-48 minutes: Stir in cheese, let stand, season, and serve.

This quick preparation and cooking time make this One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Rice an ideal choice for weeknight dinners when time is limited, but you still want a wholesome and flavorful meal.

How to Serve

This versatile One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Rice can be served in a variety of ways, making it a flexible dish for different occasions and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a comforting main course or a flavorful side dish, here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

As a Main Course:

• Standalone Comfort: Serve it as is, in generous bowls, for a simple and satisfying vegetarian main course. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor are comforting and filling on their own.
• With a Side Salad: Pair it with a fresh green salad or a vibrant tomato salad to add lightness and balance to the meal. The salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the rice.
• Grilled Vegetables: Serve alongside grilled vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or broccoli for a heartier and more nutritious vegetarian meal. The grilled vegetables add smoky flavor and extra nutrients.
• Protein Boost: Add a source of protein to make it a more complete meal. Options include:
  • Grilled or roasted chicken: Sliced chicken breast or thighs pair wonderfully with the cheesy rice.
  • Pan-seared shrimp: Quickly cooked shrimp add a delicate seafood element.
  • Chickpeas or white beans: For a vegetarian protein boost, stir in cooked chickpeas or white beans.
  • Tofu or tempeh: Cubed and pan-fried or baked tofu or tempeh can be added for a plant-based protein option.

As a Side Dish:

• Alongside Meat Dishes: Serve it as a flavorful side dish with roasted chicken, grilled steak, pork chops, or baked fish. It complements a wide range of proteins and adds a comforting carbohydrate element to the meal.
• Barbecue Side: It’s a great side dish for barbecues and cookouts, pairing well with grilled meats and vegetables.
• Potluck Contribution: This dish is easy to transport and serve, making it a perfect contribution to potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.

Garnishing Ideas:

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, chives, basil, or dill for added freshness and flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Extra Cheese: Top with extra shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for an even cheesier experience.
• Breadcrumbs: Toasted breadcrumbs add a crunchy texture contrast.
• Lemon Wedge: Serve with a lemon wedge for a squeeze of brightness and acidity.

Additional Tips

To ensure your One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Rice turns out perfectly every time, here are five helpful tips based on common cooking considerations and ways to enhance the recipe:

1. Don’t Overcook the Zucchini: Zucchini cooks quickly, and overcooked zucchini can become mushy and watery. Dice the zucchini into relatively uniform pieces and add it to the pot along with the broth. Simmering for 18-20 minutes should be just right. Avoid stirring excessively after adding the zucchini to prevent it from breaking down too much. You want the zucchini to be tender but still have a bit of texture.
2. Use Hot Broth: Using hot vegetable broth when adding it to the pot helps maintain the cooking temperature and speeds up the cooking process. Heating the broth separately in a kettle or microwave before adding it to the rice can ensure a more even and efficient cooking process. This also prevents the cooking process from pausing when cold liquid is added to a hot pot.
3. Resist Lifting the Lid: It’s tempting to peek under the lid while the rice is simmering, but try to resist! Lifting the lid releases steam, which is essential for cooking the rice properly. Each time you lift the lid, you extend the cooking time. Trust the simmering time and only check for doneness after the recommended 18-20 minutes.
4. Adjust Cheese to Your Preference: The recipe calls for cheddar and Parmesan cheese, but you can easily customize the cheese blend to your liking. Experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for extra meltiness, Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or pepper jack for a spicy kick. You can also adjust the amount of cheese based on how cheesy you prefer your rice. Don’t be afraid to try different combinations to find your perfect cheesy rice blend.
5. Add a Touch of Acidity: A squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of white wine vinegar at the end of cooking can brighten up the flavors of the dish and cut through the richness of the cheese. Acidic elements help balance the creamy and savory flavors, adding a layer of complexity and freshness. Start with a small amount and add more to taste. This is especially helpful if you find the dish slightly too heavy or rich.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about making One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Rice, addressing common concerns and offering helpful tips for success:

Q1: Can I use a different type of rice for this recipe?

A1: While long-grain rice is recommended for its fluffy texture, you can use other types of rice with slight adjustments. Basmati or jasmine rice work well and have a similar cooking time. If using brown rice, you will need to increase the cooking time significantly and possibly add more broth, as brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more liquid. Avoid using short-grain rice or risotto rice, as they will result in a stickier, less fluffy texture.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A2: Yes, you can prepare the One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Rice ahead of time, but it’s best enjoyed fresh for the creamiest texture. If making ahead, cook the rice according to the instructions, then let it cool slightly before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up and reheat gently in a pot on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. The texture may be slightly less creamy upon reheating, but it will still be delicious.

Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

A3: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile and you can easily add other vegetables. Consider adding diced bell peppers (any color), carrots, peas, corn, or spinach. Add heartier vegetables like carrots and bell peppers along with the onions to sauté. Add quicker-cooking vegetables like peas or spinach towards the end of cooking, along with the zucchini, or stir in fresh spinach right before adding the cheese, allowing it to wilt from the heat.

Q4: Is this recipe vegetarian? Can it be made vegan?

A4: Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as written, using vegetable broth and cheese. To make it vegan, you would need to substitute the cheese with a vegan cheese alternative. There are many shredded vegan cheddar and Parmesan-style cheeses available that melt reasonably well. Choose a brand that you enjoy the flavor of. Ensure your Italian seasoning is also vegan, though most are.

Q5: How should I store leftovers and for how long?

A5: Store leftover One Pot Cheesy Zucchini Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. As mentioned earlier, you may need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore some moisture and creaminess. Ensure the rice is heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Print