Rice And Monterey Jack Cheese
A cheesy, flavorful casserole combining rice, Monterey Jack, green chiles, and sour cream, topped with Parmesan for a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Layer cooked white rice, grated Monterey Jack cheese, and sour cream in the casserole dish.
- Add chopped green chile peppers between the layers.
- Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of sour cream on top.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 23 minutes.
- Do not bake longer than 23 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, mix in a bit of cream cheese with the sour cream; this can enhance the richness of the dish. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using low-fat sour cream and cheese. You can also swap out Monterey Jack for other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy rice dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also works well as a side to grilled meats or as a hearty vegetarian main course. For a fun twist, serve it alongside a spicy salsa or guacamole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Monterey Jack Cheese contains roughly 187 calories, with 6g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% 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 for added fiber and a nuttier flavor. Just ensure it is fully cooked before layering, as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. Adjust baking time if needed.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to the green chile peppers?
Absolutely! You can substitute the green chile peppers with diced bell peppers for a milder flavor or omit them altogether if you prefer a simpler dish. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove the cover and follow the baking instructions, allowing a few extra minutes if it's coming 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).