Rice And Tomato Casserole
A hearty rice casserole featuring tomatoes, olives, and cheese, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put raw rice in the bottom of a buttered casserole dish.
- Top the rice with canned tomatoes.
- Sauté chopped onion and diced green pepper in butter until tender.
- Mix sautéed vegetables with olives and salt, then pour over the tomatoes.
- Top with grated cheese and bread crumbs.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 60 to 75 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, consider adding cooked ground beef or turkey to the vegetable mix. You can substitute the olives with capers or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, use instant rice to reduce baking time. For a creamier texture, stir in a little cream cheese before baking. Pair this dish with a side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a satisfying meal. For a vegetarian option, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a quinoa salad. A glass of chilled white wine can complement the flavors nicely. For those who enjoy a hearty dessert, consider finishing with Grandma'S Ice Cream for a delightful end to the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store 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) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating. Avoid reheating more than once to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice And Tomato Casserole contains roughly 192 calories, with 6g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1705mg per serving (74% 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 it will require a longer cooking time. Pre-cook the brown rice for about 20 minutes before layering it in the casserole to ensure it cooks through during baking.
What can I substitute for the cheese?
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or vegan cheese alternatives. For a different taste, crumbled feta or goat cheese can also work well in place of the grated cheese.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken, sausage, or beans can be mixed in with the vegetables for added protein. Just ensure any meat is pre-cooked before adding it to the casserole to ensure even cooking.
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).