Oven Spanish Rice
A hearty baked Spanish rice dish with tomatoes, green peppers, and melted sharp cheese, perfect for family dinners and gatherings with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a saucepan, cook onion and green pepper in shortening or salad oil until tender, but not brown.
- Stir in spaghetti sauce mix, tomatoes, uncooked rice, salt, and water.
- Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour into a greased 1 1/2-quart casserole, cover, and bake in a moderate oven at 350°F for 30 minutes or until rice is done.
- Sprinkle with shredded sharp cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, try adding cooked ground beef or sausage for added protein. You can substitute the spaghetti sauce mix with homemade marinara sauce if preferred. If you want a little heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the cooking time if using brown rice, as it may require longer to become tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Oven Spanish Rice alongside a fresh green salad or with warm tortillas for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Tangy Fruit Gelatin for a refreshing dessert. You can also top it with avocado slices or fresh cilantro for added flavor and garnish. This dish is filling enough to stand alone but works well with grilled chicken or fish.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and cover it with a damp paper towel in the microwave to prevent it from drying out. Heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Spanish Rice contains roughly 265 calories, with 7g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1632mg per serving (71% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! This Oven Spanish Rice is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure the spaghetti sauce mix does not contain meat products. You can also enhance the dish with additional vegetables like corn or black beans for more flavor and texture.
What can I use instead of American cheese?
If you prefer a different cheese, shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack work well as substitutes. For a lighter option, consider using a sprinkle of feta or goat cheese, which will add a tangy flavor that complements the dish nicely.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice mixture a day in advance. Simply assemble the ingredients and store them in the casserole dish covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. Bake it when you're ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking 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).