Rice Casserole is a warm, cheesy, and satisfying dish that makes the perfect side or main course. Packed with fluffy rice, creamy sauce, and a blend of savory ingredients, this baked casserole is an easy and delicious way to feed the whole family. Whether served alone or alongside your favorite entrée, it’s always a hit!
⏳ Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
📝 Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked chicken or ground beef (optional)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup bread crumbs or crushed crackers for topping
🍨 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded cheese, cooked chicken or beef, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and seasonings. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle bread crumbs or crushed crackers on top for a crispy, golden crust.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, and the top is golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for 2 minutes at the end.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with Old-Fashioned Goulash for a hearty meal!
🔥 Tips for the Best Rice Casserole
- 🍗 Swap chicken for sausage or ground beef for variety.
- 🥦 Add veggies like broccoli or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- 🧀 Use different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for more flavor.
- 🥄 Stir in sour cream for a richer, creamier texture.
💛 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Rice Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with comforting flavors. It’s an easy, budget-friendly dish that makes a great family meal. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite proteins and veggies!
🥄 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Sugar: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
❄️ Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
🍽️ Conclusion
Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish that’s easy to make and loved by all. Try it with Baked Cream Cheese Chicken for a complete meal. Whether for a family dinner or potluck, this recipe will always be a crowd-pleaser! 😊
Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, shredded cheese, cooked chicken or beef, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and seasonings. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
- Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle bread crumbs or crushed crackers on top for a crispy, golden crust.
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, and the top is golden brown. For extra crispiness, broil for 2 minutes at the end.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with Old-Fashioned Goulash for a hearty meal!
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
