Rice-Con-Queso
A creamy and cheesy rice casserole infused with green chilies, onion, and bell pepper, offering a comforting blend of flavors with a hint of cumin and oregano. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this dish is hearty and versatile, appealing to both vegetarians and cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a 1 1/2-quart casserole with cooking spray.
- Combine cooked rice, chopped onion, chopped green chilies, diced red sweet pepper, plain yogurt, cumin (if using), oregano, and grated Cheddar cheese in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding more yogurt or incorporating cream cheese. If you want to add a kick, try including jalapeños or swapping the Cheddar for Pepper Jack cheese. You can also use brown rice for a healthier alternative. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge until ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Rice-Con-Queso with tortilla chips for a fun appetizer or alongside a fresh salad for a wholesome meal. It pairs beautifully with Black Bean Dip or as a side to Nacho Pizza. Garnish with fresh cilantro or avocado for added flavor and a pop of color.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overheat to maintain the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice-Con-Queso contains roughly 937 calories, with 30g protein, 182g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (316% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1005mg per serving (44% 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 recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it does not include meat. All the ingredients are plant-based, making it perfect for those looking for vegetarian recipes. Just ensure the cheese and yogurt are suitable for your dietary preferences.
Can I freeze Rice-Con-Queso?
Yes, you can freeze this dish before baking. Assemble it in the casserole dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you want a different flavor, you can substitute Cheddar with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a vegan cheese alternative. Each will give the dish a unique twist while still keeping it delicious.
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).