Rice And Chili
A cheesy, hearty baked rice dish topped with chili, perfect for casual dinners and gatherings. Combines creamy cheese, spicy chili, and tender rice for satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked rice and cheese soup well.
- Put the mixture into a 9-inch pie plate, raising the sides like a pie crust.
- Add chili in the center of the rice mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Let set for 5 minutes, then cut into servings.
- Garnish with sour cream and shredded Cheddar cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of cream cheese to the cheese soup mixture. You can substitute turkey chili with vegetarian chili for a meatless version. If nacho cheese soup isn't available, a cheese sauce or a homemade cheese blend can work well. Feel free to customize with spices like cumin or chili powder for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice And Chili dish pairs beautifully with a side salad or cornbread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh chopped green onions or jalapeños for added flavor. For a fun twist, serve it alongside Banana Split Cake (Student Favorite) for dessert, making it a delightful dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Chili contains roughly 585 calories, with 30g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (78% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1002mg per serving (44% 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, brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative to white rice. Just ensure it is fully cooked and tender before mixing with the cheese soup. The texture and flavor will be slightly nuttier, which complements the chili well.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze this Rice And Chili dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with this dish?
Consider serving this dish with a fresh green salad or some crunchy tortilla chips for added texture. You can also accompany it with a side of guacamole or salsa for a zesty touch, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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).