Mom'S Rice Casserole
A creamy rice casserole with green chilies and sharp cheddar, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks, offering cheesy and mildly spicy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice and add 1 tablespoon of butter while cooking.
- Let the rice cool.
- Pour sour cream over the rice and mix well.
- Butter a casserole dish.
- Pour the rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Add the chopped green chilies and shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Mix all ingredients together in the casserole dish.
- Top with 2 tablespoons of butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat sour cream. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding diced jalapeños along with the green chilies. You can substitute the sharp cheddar with pepper jack for a more robust flavor. Additionally, leftover cooked rice works well here, saving you time in preparation.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a great main dish and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. For a comforting dessert, consider following up with 'Southern Living's' Chocolate Sour Cream Pound Cake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions. For best results, add a splash of water before reheating to keep the rice moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Rice Casserole contains roughly 1112 calories, with 56g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 68g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (122% of the Daily Value), protein (111% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (86% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2124mg per serving (92% 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 different types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with various cheeses like Monterey jack or mozzarella. Each variety will bring a different flavor profile to the dish. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is inherently vegetarian. You can enhance it by adding more vegetables like bell peppers or corn. For a heartier option, consider including beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, which will complement the flavors well.
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).