Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Rice Recipe
Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Rice is a creamy, low-carb side dish featuring riced cauliflower and broccoli coated in a rich cheddar cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for a wholesome, flavorful vegetable dish that combines tender cauliflower and broccoli with a smooth, cheesy, and slightly tangy sauce made from heavy cream and mustard powder.
- Author: Isla
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Vegetables
- 4 cups cauliflower (riced, see notes)
- 2 cups broccoli (riced)
Cooking Fat & Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 4 tablespoons butter
Sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- Heat the oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté the riced vegetables: Add the riced cauliflower and broccoli to the skillet, seasoning with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Cook while stirring often until the mixture is just tender, about 8-9 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce base: Transfer the cooked vegetable mixture to a bowl, then wipe the skillet clean. Return the skillet to medium heat and add 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream and 1 teaspoon of mustard powder until the mixture is well blended. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes until hot and bubbly.
- Melt the cheese: Gradually whisk in 8 ounces of shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the cream mixture until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine vegetables with cheese sauce: Return the cooked riced cauliflower and broccoli back to the skillet and stir well to evenly coat the vegetables with the cheesy sauce.
- Finish cooking: Continue cooking the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally until everything is heated through and combined evenly. Serve hot.
Notes
- For best results, rice fresh cauliflower and broccoli yourself instead of using frozen to avoid excess moisture.
- Shred cheddar cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese, as it melts better without added starches.
- Consider adding cooked chicken, bacon, sausage, or ham for extra protein and flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 3-5 days.
- This recipe is a great low-carb alternative to traditional rice dishes and fits well into keto-friendly meal plans.
- See detailed techniques on how to rice cauliflower in linked posts for best vegetable texture.
Keywords: cheesy cauliflower rice, broccoli rice, low carb side dish, keto appetizer, cheesy vegetable dish, riced cauliflower recipe, healthy vegetable side