Mary Ester'S Rice
Creamy rice dish with melted cheese, mushrooms, and savory broth flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 2-quart casserole dish, melt butter.
- Add consomme soup, onion soup, uncle ben rice, and mushrooms.
- Bake for 1 hour in a 350°F oven.
- Add cheddar cheese and leave in the oven until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the mushrooms in the melted butter before mixing them with the other ingredients. You can substitute Uncle Ben's rice with any long-grain rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of consomme and onion soup. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mary Ester's Rice as a hearty side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It also works well as a main dish when paired with a light salad. Consider complementing it with a refreshing dish like Rice, Cauliflower And Broccoli Toss for a balanced meal. A drizzle of hot sauce can add a delightful kick if desired.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rice in an oven-safe dish, cover with aluminum foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary Ester'S Rice contains roughly 22 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 2g fat.
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 Uncle Ben's rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the baking time to about 1.5 hours, and make sure to increase the liquid slightly to ensure the rice cooks properly.
What can I add to this recipe for more protein?
To enhance the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, or even cooked lentils before baking. These additions will make the dish more filling and nutritious while still maintaining its delicious flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming 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).