Cheddar Rice Casserole
Looking for the ultimate comfort side dish? Our Cheddar Rice Casserole is a cheesy, savory masterpiece. By combining fluffy long-grain rice with sharp cheddar, fresh parsley, and a rich egg-and-milk custard, we’ve created a dish that’s golden on top and incredibly creamy inside. It’s the perfect companion for grilled meats or a standalone vegetarian delight.
| Prep Time | Bake Time | Yield |
|---|---|---|
| 15 Minutes | 45 Minutes | 6 Servings |
Ingredients
- The Sauté: 1/4 cup Butter, 1/4 cup chopped Onion, 2 Garlic cloves (minced).
- The Base: 3 cups cooked Long-grain Rice.
- Cheesy Goodness: 2 cups shredded Cheddar Cheese, 1 cup minced fresh Parsley.
- The Custard: 1 cup Milk, 4 Eggs (lightly beaten).
- Seasoning: 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp Salt.
Instructions
- Sauté: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until they are soft and tender.
- Mix: Add the cooked rice, shredded cheddar, fresh parsley, milk, beaten eggs, Worcestershire sauce, and salt to the saucepan. Mix everything well until fully combined.
- Transfer: Pour the mixture into a greased shallow 1-quart baking dish.
- Bake: Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes.
- Test: The casserole is done when a knife inserted near the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Calories | 325 kcal |
| Calcium | 28% DV |
| Protein | 14g |
Pro Tips for a Perfect Casserole
- Sharpness Matters: Use "Extra Sharp" Cheddar for the best flavor payoff; mild cheddar can get lost in the rice and milk.
- Fresh is Best: Don't skip the fresh parsley! It adds a necessary brightness and color to contrast the rich cheese.
- Rice Texture: Make sure your rice is cooked but firm (al dente) before baking, so it doesn't turn mushy in the custard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: Yes! Brown rice adds a nice nutty flavor and extra fiber, though it will change the texture slightly to be more chewy.
A: Yes! Brown rice adds a nice nutty flavor and extra fiber, though it will change the texture slightly to be more chewy.
Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Definitely. Steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms are excellent additions to this base.
A: Definitely. Steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms are excellent additions to this base.
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