Cheesy Rice Bake
A creamy, cheesy rice casserole packed with flavorful American-style ingredients. The combination of melted American cheese, tender rice, and savory chicken soup creates a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Topped with paprika for a touch of color and flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 1 1/2-quart casserole, combine boiling water, chicken bouillon cube, and shredded American cheese.
- Stir until the cheese is partially melted.
- Add evaporated milk, cream of chicken soup, uncooked instant rice, and pimento; mix well.
- Bake until heated through and bubbly, then garnish with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mixture of shredded cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack along with American cheese. If you want a bit of spice, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option, or use homemade cream of broccoli soup for a fresh twist. This dish is easy to adapt to your taste!
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Rice Bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside grilled chicken or roasted meats. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added flavor and color. This dish is a perfect side for any of your favorite chicken recipes, such as Take It Easy Chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated to your preference. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help restore moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Rice Bake contains roughly 501 calories, with 17g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (192% of the Daily Value), iron (101% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (86% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1196mg per serving (52% 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 Cheesy Rice Bake ahead of time. Assemble the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to bake, it may require an additional 10-15 minutes in the oven due to being cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of instant rice?
If you don't have instant rice, you can use regular long-grain rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. For every cup of uncooked rice, use 1 1/2 cups of water. Cook the rice separately before adding it to the casserole mixture, as it needs longer to become tender.
Can I freeze the Cheesy Rice Bake?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This is a great way to make meals ahead of time!
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).