Texas Green Rice
A creamy, cheesy rice casserole packed with fresh green peppers, parsley, and green onions, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked rice, milk, salad dressing, chopped green pepper, chopped parsley, chopped green onion, minced garlic, and grated cheese in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle additional cheese on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until heated through and cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, adjust the milk to your preference, starting with 1 1/2 cups and adding more if needed. Substitute with plant-based milk for a dairy-free version. If you want to add some protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken or black beans. Fresh herbs can be swapped based on availability; cilantro or basil work well too.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Texas Green Rice as a hearty main dish or as a side alongside grilled meats or fish. It pairs beautifully with Savory Cheese Rolls or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a complete feast, consider serving it with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in short intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, you can re-bake it at 350°F for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Texas Green Rice contains roughly 299 calories, with 9g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value) and iron (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 576mg per serving (25% 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 nutrition. Just be aware that brown rice may require more cooking time and liquid, so adjust the milk accordingly to ensure the dish remains creamy.
What can I use if I don't have green pepper?
If you don't have green pepper, consider using diced zucchini or spinach for a different flavor profile. You can also add other vegetables like peas or corn for added color and sweetness.
Is this dish suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, Texas Green Rice is a great option for vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that the salad dressing and cheese used are free from animal rennet if you're looking for a strictly vegetarian dish.
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).