Easy Cheesy Broccoli Rice

Ingredients

• 1 lb. frozen broccoli florets, thawed
• 2 cups long grain rice
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper, optional
• Freshly cracked pepper
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar

Directions

1. Pour the rice into a large pot, then stir in 3 cups water. Cover the pot and set it over high heat until the water boils. As soon as it is bubbling, lower the heat and let the rice simmer for 15 minutes. After those 15 minutes, switch off the heat and leave the lid in place while the rice sits for 5 minutes. If you prefer, cook the rice using your usual method, such as a rice cooker, Instant Pot, etc.
2. While the rice is doing its thing, cut the broccoli florets down into very small pieces.
3. When the rice is ready, loosen the grains with a fork. Drop in the butter, salt, garlic powder, cayenne, and a bit of freshly cracked pepper, then gently turn everything together until the seasonings are worked through and the butter has melted into the hot rice.
4. Add the chopped broccoli next, folding it through with a light hand. The broccoli will cool the rice just enough so it is still hot to warm, but not scorching enough to make the cheese melt on contact.
5. Add the Parmesan and cheddar at the end, then fold again until combined. Taste, add more salt or butter if it needs it, and serve immediately.