Rice And Green Chilies
Creamy rice combined with green chilies and melted cheese creates a flavorful, comforting casserole perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the rice until tender and let it cool.
- Combine the cooled rice with sour cream, chopped green chilies, salt, and butter; mix well.
- Spread half of the rice mixture in a buttered casserole dish.
- Top with half of the grated Jack cheese.
- Add the remaining rice mixture on top.
- Cover with the rest of the cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a touch more sour cream or using a blend of sour cream and cream cheese. If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for hotter varieties of green chilies. Leftover rice can also be used, just make sure it's well chilled before mixing. If you're out of Jack cheese, try substituting with Monterey Jack or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For added flavor, serve with a dollop of salsa or guacamole on the side. It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats or can be enjoyed as a hearty vegetarian main, perfect for casual gatherings or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to add a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Green Chilies contains roughly 644 calories, with 7g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is a good source of calcium (19% of the Daily Value), protein (13% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 987mg per serving (43% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as brown rice typically takes about 45 minutes to cook. The texture will be nuttier and chewier, which can add a nice contrast to the creamy mixture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian-friendly?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but to enhance the flavors, consider adding more vegetables such as bell peppers or corn. Additionally, ensure that your cheese is rennet-free if you're aiming for a strictly vegetarian dish. You could also explore using plant-based sour cream alternatives.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rice mixture a day ahead and assemble it in the casserole dish. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, just add the cheese on top and follow the baking instructions. This makes it perfect for entertaining, as you can save time on the day of serving.
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).