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Easy Thermos Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bowls for School Lunch

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These Easy Thermos Cheesy Broccoli Rice Bowls are a quick, comforting, and kid-friendly lunch that stays warm in a thermos for hours. Made with simple ingredients like rice, frozen broccoli, and sharp cheddar cheese, this recipe is perfect for busy school mornings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 ½ cups frozen broccoli florets
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup milk (any kind)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice: Place the 1 cup of rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Toast the rice: In a medium saucepan, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes until the grains look slightly translucent and smell nutty.
  3. Add the broth and seasonings: Pour in the 2 cups of broth, then add the garlic powder, onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Stir everything together.
  4. Cook the rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with the lid and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  5. Add the broccoli: After 15 minutes, remove the lid. Add the frozen broccoli florets right on top. Don’t stir them in yet. Cover the pot again and let it cook for another 5 minutes.
  6. Add the cheese and milk: Remove the pot from the heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the rice and broccoli, then pour in the ¼ cup of milk. Stir gently until the cheese is completely melted and everything is coated.
  7. Season and adjust: Taste the rice and add more salt or pepper if needed.
  8. Pack the thermos: While the rice is still piping hot, fill your pre-heated thermos. Pack it tightly to minimize air pockets. Close the lid immediately.

Notes

Pre-heat your thermos by filling it with boiling water for 5 minutes before adding the rice. Shred your own cheese from a block for the smoothest melt. Do not lift the lid while the rice is cooking to ensure even cooking. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: thermos lunch, cheesy broccoli rice, school lunch, easy lunch, kid-friendly, broccoli rice bowls, hot lunch

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/easy-thermos-cheesy-broccoli-rice-bowls-for-school-lunch/