White Hot Rice
A creamy, cheesy rice bake with a hint of spice from jalapenos, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks that love bold flavors and cheesy textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix cooked rice, sour cream, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, diced jalapenos, salt, and pepper together.
- Spread the mixture evenly in a 9 x 13-inch Pyrex dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20 to 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a bit more sour cream. If you want to spice it up, use pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack. You can also substitute fresh jalapenos with canned ones for convenience, or swap them out for diced green chilies if you prefer a milder flavor. Incorporating sautéed onions or garlic can add extra depth to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
White Hot Rice is a fantastic side dish for grilled meats or tacos. It pairs beautifully with Pineapple Casserole(Good With Ham) for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner. For a fun twist, top with fresh cilantro or avocado slices before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rice mixture in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White Hot Rice contains roughly 167 calories, with 7g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 905mg per serving (39% 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 absolutely use brown rice in this recipe. Just keep in mind that brown rice has a longer cooking time, so ensure it is fully cooked before mixing with the other ingredients. The flavor will be slightly nuttier, adding a lovely depth to the dish.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make White Hot Rice vegetarian, simply ensure that the cheese and sour cream you use are free of animal rennet or gelatin. Most Monterey Jack and sour cream brands are vegetarian-friendly, but double-check the labels to be sure. This dish is perfect for vegetarian recipes!
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day ahead. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you're ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and adjust the baking time as needed since it will be cold 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).