Deluxe Rice Casserole
Deluxe Rice Casserole features creamy corn, tender vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté onion and green pepper in margarine until tender, but not browned.
- Add cream-style corn, pimentos, sugar, and uncooked Minute rice to the sautéed vegetables.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bake, covered, at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven and top with grated cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or using bell peppers of different colors. You can substitute the Minute rice with regular white rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you want a creamier texture, mix in a cup of sour cream or cream cheese. This dish pairs beautifully with Aunt Mary's Cheesy Potatoes for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Deluxe Rice Casserole as a hearty main dish or side. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables, making it a versatile addition to any meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish. This dish is also perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deluxe Rice Casserole contains roughly 208 calories, with 5g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (194% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply follow the steps until just before baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I use instead of cream-style corn?
If you don't have cream-style corn, you can blend whole kernel corn with a bit of milk or cream to achieve a similar consistency. Alternatively, you can use regular corn and add a bit of heavy cream or a flour slurry to thicken it.
Is this casserole suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Deluxe Rice Casserole is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat. It’s a great option for vegetarian recipes. You can enhance the nutritional value by adding beans or lentils to the mix for added protein.
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).