Rice Elena
Creamy, cheesy rice casserole with green chilies and sour cream offers a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks, with a cheesy, spicy kick.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Butter a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Mix cooked rice, sour cream, chopped green chilies, and grated Monterey Jack cheese together.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. You can also substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar or pepper jack for a spicier kick. Adding cooked chicken or ground beef can turn this into a heartier meal. Be sure to season the rice well before mixing to enhance the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For added flavor, serve with a dollop of salsa or guacamole on top. It also complements well with sides like Cheesy Santa Fe Corn Muffins, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Elena contains roughly 180 calories, with 6g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 720mg per serving (31% 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 for a nuttier flavor and added fiber. Just ensure it's fully cooked before mixing with the other ingredients, as brown rice may take longer to prepare than white rice.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. However, be sure to check that the cheese used is rennet-free if strict vegetarian guidelines are followed.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just mix the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before putting it in the oven for 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).