Mexican Rice(Original Recipe)
A cheesy, flavorful Mexican rice casserole with tomatoes, green chilies, and melted Monterey Jack cheese, perfect for hearty family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked rice, diced Ro-Tel tomatoes, garlic salt, onion salt, and chili powder in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine sour cream and chopped green chilies.
- Layer half of the rice mixture in a large casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with grated Monterey Jack cheese over the rice layer.
- Spread the sour cream and green chilies mixture over the cheese.
- Add the remaining rice mixture on top.
- Bake in the oven until hot and bubbly. Garnish with black olives, chopped green onions, or chopped tomatoes if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a mix of sour cream and cream cheese. You can substitute Monterey Jack with cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick. If you prefer more heat, add diced jalapeños to the rice mixture. This dish can also be made ahead and refrigerated before baking for a quick weeknight meal. For a lighter version, use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mexican Rice alongside grilled chicken or beef for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Quick Guacamole and makes a great side for taco night. Consider topping with fresh cilantro, sliced olives, or diced avocado for extra flavor. For a vegetarian option, serve with a side of Hacienda Bean Dip or a fresh salad for a well-rounded dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal. If the rice seems dry, add a splash of broth or water before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Rice(Original Recipe) contains roughly 141 calories, with 7g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1180mg per serving (51% 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?
Yes, you can prepare the layers in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just assemble the dish without baking and cover it tightly. When ready to serve, bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you're looking for a substitute for sour cream, Greek yogurt works well and adds a nice tang. You can also use cottage cheese for a lighter option or a dairy-free yogurt if you want to keep it vegan. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary slightly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider using spicy diced tomatoes or adding more chili powder to the rice mixture. You could also mix in diced jalapeños or serrano peppers. For an extra kick, top with a drizzle of hot sauce just before serving.
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).