Mg'S Baked Rice
A comforting baked rice with sweet water chestnuts, savory mushrooms, and creamy French onion soup, finished with a buttery crust—perfect for seafood lovers or a quick weeknight side.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the sliced water chestnuts (with juice), French onion soup (undiluted), sliced mushrooms (with juice), and real rice in a 2‑quart casserole.
- Pat the top with a stick of oleo. Bake at 350°F for 1 hour, covered.
- Serve the dish hot, accompanied by chicken, shrimp, or scallops.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a short grain rice instead of real rice. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the French onion soup with a vegetable broth and add some sautéed onions for flavor. Additionally, you can enhance the dish with spices like garlic powder or thyme to elevate the taste. This recipe is also flexible; feel free to mix in other vegetables from your pantry.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this baked rice hot, alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or scallops for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad like Large Christmas Salad or some steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a fun twist, consider serving it with a side of Salad Bar Carrots for a crunchy contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rice in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of water to prevent it from drying out, and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mg'S Baked Rice contains roughly 167 calories, with 7g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (131% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 636mg per serving (28% 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 use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Pre-cooking the brown rice slightly before mixing it with the other ingredients can help ensure it becomes tender by the end of baking.
What can I substitute for water chestnuts?
If you don't have water chestnuts, you can substitute them with diced celery or chopped jicama for a similar crunchy texture. Alternatively, if you're looking for a more flavorful option, consider using diced bell peppers.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the baked rice. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
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).