Low Fat Cheesy Rice

Indulge in the comforting flavors of "Low Fat Cheesy Rice," a wholesome twist on a classic favorite that’s perfect for health-conscious food lovers. This creamy side dish balances rich, cheesy goodness with lighter ingredients like fat-free evaporated milk and reduced-fat sharp cheddar cheese, making it a guilt-free delight. Fluffy long-grain white rice is simmered in low-sodium chicken broth for extra flavor, then coated in a velvety cheese sauce infused with a subtle kick of onion and garlic powder. Finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant touch, this quick and easy recipe comes together in just 30 minutes and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or your favorite main course. Perfectly creamy and irresistibly cheesy, it’s a satisfying side dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 0.5 cup fat-free evaporated milk
• 2 tablespoons light cream cheese
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, reduced-fat, shredded
• 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
• 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
• 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, combine the long-grain white rice and low-sodium chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 2

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 3

In a separate small saucepan, heat the fat-free evaporated milk over low heat.

Step 4

Stir in the light cream cheese, whisking continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

Step 5

Add the reduced-fat shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the saucepan, stirring gently until melted and well combined.

Step 6

Season the cheese mixture with onion powder, garlic powder, and ground black pepper, stirring until just combined.

Step 7

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from heat and gently fold in the cheese sauce until the rice is well coated and creamy.

Step 8

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot as a delicious, low-fat side dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(970.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	786.0

Total Fat 30.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 17.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2g
Cholesterol 81.2mg	0%
Sodium 1127.3mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 82.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 1.9g	0%
Total Sugars 18.5g
Protein 50.2g	0%

Vitamin D 128.4IU	0%
Calcium 1282.5mg	0%
Iron 4.2mg	0%
Potassium 847.0mg	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: 34.1%

Protein: 24.9%

Carbs: 41.0%