Cheese And Rice Casserole
A comforting baked casserole combining creamy cheese, flavorful green chilies, and rice for a hearty, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 1 cup grated cheese with 2 cups cooked rice, sour cream, and green chilies.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup grated cheese on top.
- Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or some cream cheese to the mixture. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can substitute the green chilies with chopped jalapeños. This recipe is also versatile; feel free to add cooked chicken or beans for extra protein. To enhance the flavor, try mixing in some garlic powder or onion powder as well.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese And Rice Casserole serves as a fantastic main dish but can also be a delightful side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Hassel Back Potatoes or a light soup. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 325°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, adding a splash of water to keep it moist while reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Rice Casserole contains roughly 752 calories, with 30g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value), calcium (45% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1799mg per serving (78% 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 use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice in this recipe, but note that it may change the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook. Ensure the brown rice is fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients for the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, remove the foil and cook it for a few extra minutes, as it will be cold from the fridge.
Is this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, this Cheese And Rice Casserole is vegetarian as it does not contain any meat. However, always check the ingredients of the sour cream and cheese for any animal-derived additives, especially if you are cooking for strict vegetarians.
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).