Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a dish that's bursting with flavor and comfort? Look no further than this Cheesy Zucchini Rice with Bacon! This delightful American classic combines the wholesome goodness of zucchini, the savory crunch of bacon, and the creamy richness of cheddar cheese, all nestled in perfectly cooked rice. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a meal that will have your family begging for seconds. Whether you're looking for a hearty side dish or a light main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite at your table. Dive in and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes!
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice, uncooked
- 2 medium zucchini, diced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and dicing zucchini into small, uniform cubes. Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove bacon and place on paper towels to drain excess grease, then crumble into small pieces.
- In the same skillet with remaining bacon fat, add uncooked rice and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning. This will enhance the rice's nutty flavor and help prevent clumping.
- Pour chicken broth into the skillet with the toasted rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for approximately 15-18 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Once rice is cooked, gently fold in diced zucchini, allowing the residual heat to slightly soften the vegetables without overcooking them. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese over the rice. Cover the skillet and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow cheese to melt completely.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, ensuring the cheese, bacon, and zucchini are evenly distributed. Serve hot as a delicious side dish or light main course.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the zucchini and crumble the bacon in advance. This way, when you’re ready to cook, everything is at your fingertips!
- Toast the Rice: Don’t skip the step of toasting the rice in bacon fat! This simple technique enhances the nutty flavor and adds depth to your dish.
- Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth or adding a splash of white wine to the broth for an extra layer of taste.
- Zucchini Cooking Time: Be careful not to overcook the zucchini. You want it to retain a bit of crunch for texture, so fold it in gently and let the residual heat do the work.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick!
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish. Serve it as a side at your next barbecue or as a light main dish for a cozy family dinner.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 45mg
