Chili Rice Casserole
A hearty and cheesy casserole combining rice, green chilies, and creamy soups, topped with melted American cheese. Perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering, it offers bold flavors with a mild kick from jalapenos, making it a versatile dish for any spice level preference.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients except the cheese.
- Layer the grated American cheese between and on top of the mixture.
- Cover the casserole with foil.
- Bake for 50 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding an extra half pint of sour cream or using a different cheese like Monterey Jack. If you prefer more heat, you can increase the amount of jalapenos or use spicy cheese. To save time, you can substitute the Minute rice with pre-cooked rice. Be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even flavor throughout the casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This chili rice casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or cornbread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside guacamole or salsa for added flavor. For a festive touch, top with chopped cilantro or green onions just before serving. Browse more American recipes for additional side ideas.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover chili rice casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chili Rice Casserole contains roughly 262 calories, with 10g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1267mg per serving (55% 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 use brown rice instead of Minute rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook. Pre-cook the brown rice according to package instructions and then mix it with the other ingredients before baking.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can make this a vegetarian dish by omitting the American cheese and using a plant-based cheese substitute. Additionally, ensure that the cream of celery soup used is vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Mix all the ingredients and layer the cheese, then cover and refrigerate. Just add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you are baking it straight from the fridge.
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).