Jalapeno Pepper Rice Casserole
A spicy, flavorful rice casserole with jalapenos, vegetables, and savory chicken consomme, perfect for a hearty, easy-to-make meal suitable for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute oleo, chopped celery, chopped onion, grated carrots, chopped bell pepper, and chopped jalapeno peppers; add salt.
- Add rice, chicken consomme, and water to the sauteed vegetables.
- Pour the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder flavor, remove the seeds from the jalapeno peppers before adding them to the dish. You can substitute the long grain rice with brown rice for added nutrition, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you want a cheesy twist, consider adding shredded cheese on top before baking. This casserole can easily be customized with different vegetables or proteins, making it versatile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Jalapeno Pepper Rice Casserole as a hearty main dish or as a side to grilled meats. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Pot Pie(100 Servings) or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For an extra kick, offer additional chopped jalapenos or hot sauce on the side. This dish is perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jalapeno Pepper Rice Casserole contains roughly 200 calories, with 4g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (96% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 956mg per serving (42% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature, then bake as directed until heated through.
What can I substitute for chicken consomme?
If you don't have chicken consomme, you can use chicken broth as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works well too. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as broth can vary in saltiness.
How can I add more protein to this dish?
To add protein, consider mixing in cooked shredded chicken, ground turkey, or even black beans. These additions will enhance the flavor and make the casserole more filling. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if adding raw proteins to ensure they are fully cooked.
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).