Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole

Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole

This casserole is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of green chilies and melty cheese. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a potluck dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice
• 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can be substituted)
• 16 ounces sour cream
• 8 ounces (one can) diced green chilies (fire-roasted recommended for extra smoky flavor)
• Optional: Chopped cilantro, parsley, or sliced jalapenos for garnish

Cooking Guide:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish or an 8×8 inch baking dish.
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions. While the rice cooks, combine the sour cream and diced green chilies in a small bowl.
3. Once the rice is cooked, spread half of it into the bottom of the prepared casserole dish.
4. Top the rice with half of the sour cream mixture and then half of the shredded cheese.
5. Repeat layers with the remaining rice, sour cream mixture, and cheese.
6. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil (make sure the foil doesn’t touch the cheese). Bake for 20 minutes.
7. Uncover the dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly on top.
8. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro, parsley, or sliced jalapenos, if desired.

Tips:

• For a spicier casserole, use diced green chilies with jalapenos or choose a hotter variety of canned green chilies.
• If you don’t have any fire-roasted green chilies, you can use regular diced green chilies. However, for a deeper flavor, you can roast your own chilies by placing them on a baking sheet under the broiler for a few minutes, turning occasionally, until they are blistered and softened. Remove the skins and chop before using.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• To make this recipevegetarian, use vegetarian cheese.
• You can also add other ingredients to this casserole, such as cooked chicken, black beans, or corn.

Enjoy this cheesy and flavorful Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole!