Wild Rice And Cheese Casserole
A creamy wild rice and cheese casserole featuring mushrooms and a rich sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks with a savory, cheesy flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice according to package instructions.
- Pour cooked rice into a colander and drain well.
- Melt butter in a saucepan; add flour and stir until a thick paste forms.
- Gradually add milk to the saucepan, stirring continuously.
- Add cream cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth.
- Butter a 1 1/2-quart (8 x 8-inch) casserole dish.
- Layer rice, buttered mushrooms, and cream cheese sauce in the casserole.
- Repeat layers until the dish is filled, saving enough sauce for a generous top layer.
- Pour the remaining sauce on top of the casserole.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 20 to 30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute margarine with olive oil. You can also add cooked chicken or other vegetables for extra nutrition. Ensure the rice is thoroughly drained to avoid a watery casserole. Fresh French-Fried Mushrooms can enhance the dish's taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Wild Rice and Cheese Casserole is perfect as a main dish or a side. Consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also complements grilled meats beautifully. For a comforting dessert, follow with Old Fashioned Bread Pudding (Low-Fat) to end the meal on a sweet note.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk for moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wild Rice And Cheese Casserole contains roughly 18 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 Uncle Ben's rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time. Pre-cook the brown rice according to package instructions before adding it to the casserole to ensure it is tender and absorbs the flavors.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Is this casserole vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this Wild Rice and Cheese Casserole is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat. You can enhance it with additional vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition, making it a satisfying option for vegetarians.
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).