Sour Jack Rice
A cheesy, tangy baked rice dish featuring sour cream, chilies, and Monterey Jack cheese, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cooked rice, sour cream, and chopped chilies together in a bowl.
- Grease a casserole dish.
- Layer the rice mixture alternately with grated Monterey Jack cheese in the dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of milk or broth to the rice mixture. If you want a kick, use spicy chopped chilies or add some jalapeños. You can also substitute the Monterey Jack cheese with cheddar for a sharper flavor. This recipe can easily be made vegetarian by ensuring the chilies are meat-free. For a twist, try adding some black beans or corn.
Serving Suggestions
Sour Jack Rice makes a great main dish or a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for added nutrition. This dish can also complement your favorite chili or soup, making it a versatile addition to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover, heating in increments of 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sour Jack Rice contains roughly 506 calories, with 17g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1441mg per serving (63% 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 uncooked rice instead of cooked rice for this recipe?
No, uncooked rice won't work directly in this recipe as it requires cooking beforehand. However, you can prepare the rice ahead of time and refrigerate it until you're ready to make the dish, ensuring it's fluffy and ready to mix.
What type of chilies should I use?
You can use any canned chopped chilies based on your heat preference. Mild green chilies work well for a subtle flavor, while jalapeños can add significant heat. Adjust the amount according to your taste, or mix and match for a custom flavor profile.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no traditional gluten sources. Just ensure that the canned chilies and any additional ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
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).