Rice Cheese Casserole
A comforting rice casserole layered with Swiss cheese, sautéed onions and celery, infused with wine and herbs, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté onions and celery in butter until tender.
- Combine milk, wine, eggs, and salt in a bowl.
- Mix the sautéed vegetables with the milk mixture, shredded Swiss cheese, cooked rice, and chopped parsley.
- Pour into a 1 1/2-quart buttered casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with extra chopped parsley or paprika on top.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for about 30 minutes or until browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of butter and olive oil when sautéing the onions and celery. If you want to make it lighter, substitute half-and-half for the milk. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a unique twist. For added nutrition, incorporating spinach will enhance this dish, similar to a Spinach Omelette.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect as a main dish or a side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. Consider serving it alongside a light soup or as part of a buffet spread with other vegetarian recipes for a delightful meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Rice Cheese Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method helps maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Cheese Casserole contains roughly 1001 calories, with 9g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (56% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1538mg per serving (67% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of Swiss cheese?
If you don’t have Swiss cheese, you can substitute it with Gruyère, mozzarella, or even sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Each cheese will bring its unique characteristics, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preference.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but to enhance its nutritional value, you can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. This not only adds flavor but also increases the overall health benefits, making it a heartier meal.
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).