Southern Red Rice
A flavorful Southern-style rice dish featuring crispy bacon, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, baked with cheese for a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp; remove and drain on paper towels.
- Brown chopped bell peppers and onions in bacon drippings.
- Add canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Tabasco sauce; stir well.
- Stir in cooked rice and crumbled bacon.
- Pour mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 30 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try using smoked bacon or adding a touch of smoked paprika. You can substitute the bell peppers with diced zucchini or mushrooms for a different texture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the rice. This dish is versatile, so feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
Southern Red Rice is great as a main dish or a hearty side. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal, or pair it with a fresh salad like France's Spinach Salad to balance the richness. For a more filling option, consider serving with Pork Schnitzel for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rice in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Red Rice contains roughly 163 calories, with 12g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2805mg per serving (122% 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 leftover rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rice can save time and enhance the dish's flavor. Just ensure the rice is well-cooked and not too dry, as it will absorb some moisture from the sauce during baking.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
Canned diced tomatoes work best for this recipe, but you can use crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture. If you prefer fresh tomatoes, use about 4-5 ripe ones, peeled and chopped, for a fresher taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling it in the casserole dish and refrigerating it before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking straight from the fridge.
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).