Cheesy Beans Rice

Satisfy your cravings with this irresistible Cheesy Beans Rice recipe, a one-pan wonder that's packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights! Fluffy white rice is cooked to perfection in savory chicken or vegetable broth, infused with aromatic spices like cumin and chili powder. The dish is elevated with creamy black or pinto beans, sautéed onions, and a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese for a comfort food classic that's both hearty and satisfying. With just 35 minutes from prep to table, this budget-friendly and family-approved recipe is versatile enough to shine as a comforting main dish or a crowd-pleasing side. Don't forget the optional sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness!

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup white rice
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup cooked black beans or pinto beans
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 0.5 cup yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.25 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped (optional)

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set aside to drain.

Step 2

Heat olive oil and butter in a large saucepan or skillet over medium heat.

Step 3

Add the finely diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5

Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir to coat the grains in the oil and butter. Toast for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.

Step 6

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and stir in the cumin powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 7

Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 8

Once the rice is cooked, gently fold in the cooked black beans or pinto beans.

Step 9

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the rice and beans. Cover the pan again and let it sit on low heat for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.

Step 10

Remove from heat and fluff gently with a fork to combine. Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 11

Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired, and serve hot as a main dish or side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1097.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1264.5

Total Fat 64.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 33.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.7g
Cholesterol 152.9mg	0%
Sodium 3748.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 117.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 23.3g	0%
Total Sugars 5.3g
Protein 57.3g	0%

Vitamin D 26.2IU	0%
Calcium 948.4mg	0%
Iron 8.4mg	0%
Potassium 1246.8mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 45.4%

Protein: 17.9%

Carbs: 36.7%