Rice And Cheese
A creamy, cheesy rice casserole with green chilies and pimentos, perfect for cozy family dinners or potlucks. Rich flavors and comforting textures shine through.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice in water, bringing it to a boil, then cover and simmer for seventeen minutes or until done.
- Layer in a baking dish: half of the cooked rice, half of the sour cream mixture with green chilies and pimentos, and half of the grated Monterey Jack cheese.
- Repeat layers with remaining ingredients.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as cumin or paprika to the rice while it cooks. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique twist. Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, ensuring a fluffier texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or beef, or even with vegetarian recipes like Quick Spinach Supreme for a balanced plate.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can either microwave individual portions or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Ensure it's heated through before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Cheese contains roughly 384 calories, with 15g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value) and calcium (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1319mg 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Adjust the water quantity and cooking duration accordingly, usually around 40-45 minutes for brown rice. This will result in a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, making it a healthier option.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This Rice and Cheese dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance! Assemble it up to a day before baking, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, increasing the baking time slightly to ensure it's heated 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).