Cleda'S Jalapeno Rice
Creamy jalapeno rice combines spicy peppers, melted cheese, and sour cream for a flavorful side dish perfect for gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice with 2 tablespoons of butter in 2 cups of water until tender.
- When the rice is cooked, add chopped jalapeno peppers, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and sour cream.
- Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 300°F for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider using serrano peppers instead of jalapenos. You can also substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with pepper jack for an extra layer of flavor. If you need a lighter version, swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt. Be sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or steak for a complete meal. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast. You could also offer it as a side with Earl's Easy Potato Salad for a delightful spread. Garnish with extra jalapenos or fresh cilantro for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Cleda's Jalapeno Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and cover it before microwaving to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cleda'S Jalapeno Rice contains roughly 191 calories, with 7g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 694mg per serving (30% 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?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it fresh before serving to ensure a hot and creamy dish. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you prefer, you can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to sour cream. It will still provide the creaminess needed for the dish. Additionally, if you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using a cashew cream or coconut yogurt for a similar texture.
Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, Cleda's Jalapeno Rice is a perfect vegetarian recipe, as it contains no meat. However, be sure to check that the cheese and sour cream you use are vegetarian-friendly, as some cheeses may contain animal rennet.
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).