Chili And Rice
A hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, melted Monterey Jack cheese, and flavorful green chilies over rice, perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice according to package instructions.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet; grease a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Line the bottom of the dish with cooked rice.
- Layer green chilies over the rice.
- Spread half of the Monterey Jack cheese over the chilies.
- Add the cooked ground beef on top of the cheese layer.
- Arrange sliced tomatoes over the beef.
- Mix sour cream, chopped green pepper, chopped onion, oregano, parsley, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Pour the sour cream mixture over the casserole.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding jalapeños or using spicy green chilies instead of mild. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can save you steps, or use leftover rice from a previous meal. To enhance flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce to the sour cream mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This chili and rice dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with a side salad or tortilla chips for added crunch. Serve with a dollop of extra sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for a burst of freshness. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with the Hearty Taco Dip Supreme for a fun twist on a Mexican-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of sour cream to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili And Rice contains roughly 927 calories, with 38g protein, 184g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (176% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (147% of the Daily Value), and calcium (96% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1041mg per serving (45% 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 vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans and lentils for a hearty vegetarian option. Additionally, consider using plant-based cheese to keep it dairy-free while still enjoying the creamy texture.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To amp up the heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or use a can of spicy chili peppers instead of green chilies. You can also add a few dashes of hot sauce to the sour cream mixture before pouring it over the casserole.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven.
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).