Cheese 'N Chili Rice
A comforting cheesy rice casserole with green chilies and a creamy texture, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering a spicy, cheesy flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Lightly grease a 12 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Sauté chopped onion in butter and remove from heat.
- Stir in hot cooked white rice, sour cream, cottage cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Toss lightly to mix well.
- Layer half of the rice mixture in the prepared pan.
- Spread drained green chilies over that layer.
- Sprinkle with half of the grated cheese.
- Layer the remaining rice mixture on top.
- Top with the remaining grated cheese.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of Colby and Cheddar cheese. You can also substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture. Be sure to use freshly cooked rice for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese 'N Chili Rice dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You might also serve it alongside grilled chicken or beef for extra protein. For a vegetarian twist, consider serving it with a fresh corn salad or the Sweet Onion Bake for more flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rice in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese 'N Chili Rice contains roughly 283 calories, with 4g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1073mg per serving (47% 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 rice mixture in advance and assemble it in the pan. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cottage cheese?
If you're not a fan of cottage cheese, you can substitute it with ricotta cheese for a creamier texture or even omit it entirely. Just ensure to maintain the total volume of dairy for the best consistency.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this dish can be frozen before baking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
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).