If you're looking for a tasty and filling side dish that won't completely derail your diet, White Cheddar Broccoli Rice may be just what you need! One 1/2 cup (68 g) serving contains around 260 calories, making it a reasonably low-calorie option for those watching their intake.

But what exactly are you getting for those calories? Let's take a closer look at the nutritional content of this dish.

In this article, we'll explore the macronutrient breakdown of White Cheddar Broccoli Rice, as well as some of its other nutritional benefits and drawbacks. We'll also provide some tips for cooking and serving this versatile dish.

Calories in White Cheddar Broccoli Rice

As we mentioned in the introduction, one serving of White Cheddar Broccoli Rice contains approximately 260 calories. This makes it a relatively low-calorie option for a side dish or light meal. Of course, the exact number of calories you'll consume will depend on how much you eat. Keep in mind that the serving size is just 1/2 cup, so you may want to adjust your portion accordingly if you're trying to stay within a particular calorie range.

Macronutrient Breakdown

In addition to calories, it's important to consider the macronutrient content of any food you eat. White Cheddar Broccoli Rice is a good source of carbs and protein, with a relatively low fat content. One serving contains approximately 44 grams of carbohydrates, 8 grams of protein, and 2.5 grams of fat. It also provides 4 grams of dietary fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer.

Rich Source of Protein

While White Cheddar Broccoli Rice isn't packed with protein, it does provide a decent amount for a side dish. With 8 grams per serving, it can help you meet your daily protein needs without resorting to calorie-dense options.

High in Carbohydrates

As we mentioned earlier, White Cheddar Broccoli Rice is a good source of carbohydrates. This can be a benefit for active people who need quick energy to power through workouts or busy days. However, if you're trying to limit your carb intake for weight loss or other reasons, you may want to be mindful of how much of this dish you consume.

Low in Fat

Compared to some other side dishes (like those loaded with butter or cream), White Cheddar Broccoli Rice is relatively low in fat. At just 2.5 grams per serving, it's a reasonable option for those trying to reduce their overall fat intake.

A Good Source of Fiber

Another nutritional benefit of White Cheddar Broccoli Rice is its fiber content. With 4 grams of dietary fiber per serving, it can help promote feelings of fullness and support healthy digestion.

Not Suitable for Low-Carb Diets

If you're following a low-carbohydrate diet like keto or Atkins, White Cheddar Broccoli Rice may not be the best option for you. With 44 grams of carbs per serving, it could quickly eat up a significant percentage of your daily carb allowance.

May Contain Food Additives

One potential drawback of processed foods like boxed rice mixes is the presence of food additives. White Cheddar Broccoli Rice includes ingredients like modified corn starch, maltodextrin, and autolyzed yeast extract, which may be concerning for some consumers. If you prefer to avoid these types of ingredients, you may want to seek out a homemade recipe for broccoli and cheese rice instead.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare White Cheddar Broccoli Rice, follow the instructions on the box. Typically, you'll need to bring 1 3/4 cups of water to a boil, add the rice and seasoning, cover and simmer for 7-8 minutes, then stir in the cheese sauce. You can also experiment with different cooking methods, such as using a rice cooker or adding extra veggies or protein to the mix.

Versatile Side Dish Option

One of the great things about White Cheddar Broccoli Rice is its versatility. It can be served alongside a variety of main dishes, such as grilled chicken or fish, roasted vegetables, or a hearty salad. You can also use it as a base for a more substantial meal, such as a stir-fry or casserole. The possibilities are endless!