Anaheim Chili Rice
A flavorful baked rice dish combining tender brown rice, smoky Anaheim chili, melted Cheddar, and creamy sour cream, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook brown rice in water for about 50 minutes until tender.
- Drain and set aside; this will yield about 5 to 6 cups of cooked rice.
- Saute chopped onions and diced Anaheim chili in margarine for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Mix the cooked rice with the sauteed onions and chilies, then add sour cream, cottage cheese, and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45 minutes to 1 hour until bubbly hot and golden on top.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding more sour cream or substituting with Mexicana Crema. If you want a bit more heat, try adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can use any type of cheese you prefer, but sharp or medium Cheddar works best for flavor. If you don’t have brown rice, white rice can be used, though cooking times may vary.
Serving Suggestions
This Anaheim Chili Rice pairs beautifully with Mexican Broccoli and is perfect as a side for grilled meats or tacos. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for added flavor. It's also a great dish for potlucks or gatherings, making it ideal for serving large groups, similar to Mexican Pile-On.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Anaheim Chili Rice contains roughly 767 calories, with 21g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value) and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1056mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time for even heating.
Is this dish vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this Anaheim Chili Rice is vegetarian, making it a great option for those following vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that your cheese and margarine are suitable for your dietary preferences.
What can I substitute for the Anaheim chili?
If you can't find Anaheim chilies, you can substitute with poblano peppers for a similar flavor profile. For a milder dish, use bell peppers, or if you prefer more heat, go for serrano peppers. Adjust based on your spice tolerance!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).