Every parent I know is on a quest to keep their dinner hour simple, quick and trauma-free. Often that means you end up throwing together the same meal night after night. If you don't mind eating pasta with reheated sauce every night, feel free to carry on. However, if you're looking for a little variety, here's an easy recipe that you can pull together from ingredients that are probably already in your kitchen. It will keep your kids happy, your budget balanced and will get dinner on the table in a snap. It's also a good one to make ahead and the leftovers are just as tasty as the original.

Doesn't that look good? The rice is nutty and substantial, the peas lend sweetness and the cheesy sauce makes it creamy and a sure bet with the kids. What are you waiting for? This is sure to become a Family Favorite. So go on and make dinner already!

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups diced onion
3 broccoli crowns
2 cups frozen peas
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons flour
2 tablespoons butter
2 cups mozzarella cheese
1 handful sharp cheddar cheese
4 cups cooked rice
1 teaspoon salt freshly ground pepper

1. In a large dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. When it shimmers, add onions and sauté.
2. While the onions sizzle, chop broccoli into bite sized florets. Dice the stems into small pieces, to ensure that they'll soften during cooking.
3. Add the chopped broccoli to the pot and stir to incorporate with the onions.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Add a splash of water, reduce the heat and put a lid on the veggies to allow them to cook down a little.
6. In a separate saucepan, cook butter and flour together to form a roux.
7. When it looks toasted, whisk in the milk. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, until it has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon.
8. Stir in the mozzarella cheese until it is melted. Remove from the heat.
9. Return to the pot with the broccoli and onion. Stir in the rice and peas until incorporated.
10. Pour cheese sauce over the veggies and rice and mix it in.
11. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top and place the pot under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, just until the cheese browns.