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- 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups vegetable broth - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 small onion, diced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper, diced - 1 medium zucchini, diced - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

One-Skillet Cheesy Vegetable and Rice Bake

Discover the joy of one-skillet cooking with this One-Skillet Cheesy Vegetable and Rice Bake! Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines hearty long-grain rice, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese into a comforting meal that's both nutritious and delicious. Easy to prepare and clean up, it's an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep. Customize it with seasonal veggies or protein for added flavor and nutrition. Enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups vegetable broth

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup bell peppers (mixed colors), diced

1 cup zucchini, diced

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

½ teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.

    Add the Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

      Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and corn to the skillet. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.

        Add Rice and Broth: Stir in the rice until well combined, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

          Add Cheese: Once the rice is cooked, remove the lid and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed throughout the dish. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

            Create a Cheese Layer: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese evenly over the top of the rice and vegetable mixture. Cover the skillet again for another 3-5 minutes, letting the cheese melt into a gooey topping.

              Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese has melted, remove from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm as a delightful main dish or a hearty side.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4