Yummy Baked Rice
Yummy Baked Rice combines creamy cottage cheese and sour cream with cheesy goodness, seasoned with green chilies and baked to perfection. This comforting dish is ideal for family dinners or potlucks, offering a flavorful, hearty meal that satisfies both cheese lovers and rice enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice, water, and salt for 20 minutes.
- Saute onions in margarine until translucent.
- Combine cooked rice, sautéed onions, sour cream, cottage cheese, chopped green chilies, and grated Cheddar cheese.
- Place the mixture in a greased 9 x 12-inch pan.
- Bake for 45 minutes at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use long-grain rice for a fluffy texture. If you prefer a creamier dish, consider replacing half of the margarine with olive oil. You can also substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta for a different flavor. For added depth, try incorporating some spices like cumin or paprika. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can enhance the dish too.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Yummy Baked Rice as a hearty main dish or as a side to grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Buttermilk Noodles Marzetti for a complete meal. For added freshness, consider a simple green salad with vinaigrette on the side. Leftovers make for a delicious lunch option.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, ensuring they're heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Yummy Baked Rice contains roughly 633 calories, with 29g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (57% of the Daily Value), calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2435mg per serving (106% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick. Mixing in some cream cheese can also add a rich creaminess to the dish.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Yummy Baked Rice is a vegetarian dish, making it an excellent option for those following vegetarian recipes. Just ensure that all ingredients, especially the margarine, are free of animal-derived products.
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).