Rice Cheese Bake
A comforting baked rice and cheese dish with creamy milk and eggs, perfect for a quick, cheesy meal suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine cooked rice, grated cheese, milk, beaten eggs, and pepper in a large bowl; toss gently to mix.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart shallow baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until golden and set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of milk. You can also substitute the cheese with a stronger flavor like cheddar or a mix of cheeses for added depth. For a herbaceous twist, try adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the mixture. If you prefer a bit of crunch, top with breadcrumbs before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This Rice Cheese Bake makes a great side dish for grilled meats or a light vegetarian main course. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with Twice-Baked Garlic Sweet Potatoes for a comforting dinner.
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) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick and easy meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Cheese Bake contains roughly 395 calories, with 10g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 remember it will require a longer cooking time initially. Make sure the brown rice is fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients, as it will not soften further during baking.
What can I do if I don't have eggs?
If you're looking to make this dish egg-free, you can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water, let sit for a few minutes). This will help bind the ingredients together.
Can I add vegetables to the Rice Cheese Bake?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture from the veggies before mixing them in to avoid a soggy bake.
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).