Pork Chop And Spanish Rice Casserole
A hearty casserole featuring tender pork chops, flavorful tomato sauce, and seasoned rice, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle the pork chops with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the pork chops in a single layer in a baking dish.
- Cut six 1/2-inch rings from the green peppers, discarding seeds.
- Place the pepper rings on top of the pork chops and spoon rice into and around the rings.
- Chop the remaining green pepper and celery.
- Combine the chopped green pepper and celery with the tomato sauce, water, chopped onion, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
- Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the pork chops and rice.
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in a 350°F oven for 2 hours or until the rice is tender, basting the rice with the sauce mixture 2 or 3 times.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, marinate the pork chops in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and lime juice for a few hours prior to cooking. You can also substitute jasmine or basmati rice for a different texture. If you want a little heat, add chopped jalapeños to the tomato sauce mixture. This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot from the oven, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple green salad. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, and it can also be served alongside recipes like Zesty Black-Eyed Peas for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Chop And Spanish Rice Casserole contains roughly 372 calories, with 25g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1759mg per serving (76% 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 boneless pork chops instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless pork chops can be used in this recipe. Just be aware that they may cook faster than bone-in chops, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to prevent them from drying out.
What can I do if I don't have tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can substitute with crushed tomatoes or even a can of diced tomatoes. Just blend it a bit to achieve a smoother consistency. Adding a pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the reheating instructions.
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).