Baked Spicy Rice
A flavorful baked rice dish with diced tomatoes, green chilies, olives, and melted Monterey Jack cheese, perfect for a spicy, comforting meal that serves 6 to 8 people.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a shallow 2-quart baking dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Stir well and bake, uncovered, for an additional 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions in the vegetable oil before adding them to the dish. You can substitute brown rice for long grain rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Feel free to mix in some black beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition. This dish pairs well with Mexican recipes like Mexican Cornbread Muffins.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked spicy rice as a main dish or as a vibrant side to grilled meats or vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Speedy Salsa Dip for an appetizer or alongside Enchilada Squares for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water, cover, and microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through, or re-bake in the oven at 350°F until warm. This helps maintain the rice's texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Spicy Rice contains roughly 382 calories, with 5g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (16% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1240mg per serving (54% 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 dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before cooking it according to the recipe instructions.
What can I use instead of Monterey Jack cheese?
You can substitute Monterey Jack cheese with other melting cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick. Cream cheese can also create a creamy texture if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This baked spicy rice is vegetarian-friendly, packed with flavors from the tomatoes, olives, and spices. It's a great option for meatless meals and can be served alongside other vegetarian recipes for a complete feast.
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).