Cheese-Rich Casserole
A cheesy casserole featuring tender rice, sautéed green pepper and onion, enriched with creamy mushroom soup and topped with melted Cheddar cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for a hearty family dinner or casual gathering, offering a flavorful blend of vegetables and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute green pepper and onion in a small amount of Crisco in a small baking dish.
- Add uncooked Minute rice, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, and 1/2 can of water.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the mixture before baking. If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute bell peppers with diced mushrooms or zucchini. To save time, you can use pre-cooked rice instead of Minute rice, but adjust the liquid accordingly. This dish can also be customized with your favorite cheeses, like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Cheese-Rich Casserole alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like grilled chicken or baked fish, adding a comforting touch to your dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it with cornbread or dinner rolls, perfect for soaking up any cheesy goodness.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with foil to prevent drying out and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese-Rich Casserole contains roughly 501 calories, with 15g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1347mg per serving (59% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through properly.
What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup instead. For a healthier option, consider making a homemade white sauce with sautéed onions, celery, and a bit of cream for a similar flavor and consistency.
Can I add protein to this casserole?
Yes! This casserole works well with cooked chicken, ground beef, or even beans for a vegetarian option. Just mix in the protein along with the other ingredients before baking for a heartier dish that can serve as a complete meal.
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).