O'Hara'S Green Rice
O'Hara's Green Rice is a creamy, cheesy casserole featuring broccoli, onion, and celery, perfect for a comforting family meal or potluck gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chopped celery, chopped onion, cream of mushroom soup, Cheez Whiz, and frozen chopped broccoli.
- Add the stick of margarine and mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30 to 45 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the mixture before baking. If you want to reduce calories, you can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a lower-fat cheese or a homemade cheese sauce. Fresh broccoli can be used instead of frozen, but it should be blanched beforehand. This dish can be easily adapted to include other vegetables like spinach or cauliflower for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
O'Hara's Green Rice makes a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or a hearty main for vegetarian recipes. Pair it with a simple green salad or Mary Ann's Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, serve alongside baked chicken or a savory quiche, making it a versatile option for any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of O'Hara'S Green Rice contains roughly 1004 calories, with 8g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 87g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), iron (12% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1307mg per serving (57% 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 a different type of soup?
Yes, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or even a cheese soup for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste of the dish will change slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for Cheez Whiz?
Absolutely! There are several plant-based cheese alternatives available on the market that can be used in place of Cheez Whiz. Additionally, you could make a quick cheese sauce using nutritional yeast, cashews, and plant milk for a creamy and rich flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or adding a few dashes of hot sauce to the mixture before baking. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra kick.
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).