Maria'S Rice Casserole
A hearty rice casserole combining creamy soups, Mexican corn, and cheddar cheese, perfect for a comforting family dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Do not cook the rice beforehand.
- Put all ingredients into an ovenproof baking dish and mix well.
- Bake at 350°F until the rice is done, about 35 minutes.
- Top with grated Cheddar cheese and return to the oven until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of Maria's Rice Casserole, consider adding sautéed onions or bell peppers for extra depth. You can also substitute the yellow rice with brown rice for a healthier option, though cooking time may vary. If you're looking for a vegetarian alternative, ensure the soups used are meat-free. For added texture, try mixing in some cooked beans or peas.
Serving Suggestions
Maria's Rice Casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. For a comforting dessert, follow with a slice of Lemon Cloud Pie or Chocolate Chip Cherry Bars for a delightful finish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven will help maintain the texture of the cheese.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Maria'S Rice Casserole contains roughly 474 calories, with 21g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (98% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1257mg 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients in the baking dish and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, as it will be cold from the fridge.
What can I do if I don't have cream of celery or broccoli soup?
If you don't have those specific soups, you can substitute them with any cream soup you have on hand, such as cream of mushroom or cream of chicken. For a vegetarian option, you could also make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and vegetable broth to replace the soup.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to Maria's Rice Casserole, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or adding a dash of hot sauce to the ingredients. You could also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder into the mix for an extra kick, which would complement the flavors beautifully.
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).