Rice And Noodle Casserole
A comforting casserole combining rice and noodles with savory onion and chicken broth, perfect for a hearty family dinner with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Melt margarine in a large skillet.
- Add uncooked noodles, stirring constantly, until lightly browned.
- Add remaining ingredients; mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a 3-quart casserole dish.
- Let stand for 15 minutes.
- Bake in the oven for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or cream of mushroom soup to the mixture. You can substitute the margarine with butter for a richer flavor. If you prefer whole grain options, try whole wheat noodles. For more flavor, season with garlic powder or add sautéed onions. This dish can be customized with vegetables like peas or carrots for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside roasted chicken or grilled meats. You can also top with shredded cheese in the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy finish. It’s perfect for potlucks or family gatherings, similar to American recipes like Golden Chicken Stuffing Bake.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, for 2-3 minutes or until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Noodle Casserole contains roughly 289 calories, with 9g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value) and iron (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2239mg per serving (97% 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 instant rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so pre-cook it partially before adding it to the casserole. Ensure to increase the liquid amount accordingly to achieve the right texture.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this casserole vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the water chestnuts if needed. You could also add diced mushrooms for extra flavor and texture, making it a hearty vegetarian option.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold.
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).