Chili And Cheese Rice Casserole
A creamy, cheesy rice casserole with green chiles that offers bold flavors and a satisfying texture, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rice according to package directions.
- In a bowl, combine cooked rice, diced green chiles, sour cream, and half of the shredded Jack cheese.
- Turn the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese instead of Jack cheese. If you're short on sour cream, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for a similar tangy flavor. Ensure the rice is fluffy before mixing, as this will help the casserole maintain a good texture when baked. This dish is also adaptable; feel free to add cooked ground beef or turkey for added protein.
Serving Suggestions
This Chili and Cheese Rice Casserole makes a hearty main dish, perfect for a cozy dinner. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Thelma'S Golden Glow Cake for dessert, making it a great choice for family gatherings or potlucks. For a vegetarian twist, add black beans for extra protein.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili And Cheese Rice Casserole contains roughly 177 calories, with 5g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% 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
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that the ingredients, such as canned chiles and sour cream, do not contain any gluten. Always verify labels if you have severe gluten sensitivities. You can also serve it with gluten-free sides for a complete meal.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Assemble all the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it heats through completely.
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).