Are you looking for a comforting, delicious, and easy vegetarian meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering? Look no further! This rice casserole recipe is a crowd-pleaser, packed with flavour and surprisingly simple to make. It's the ultimate example of homemade cooking, showcasing the best of healthy meals without sacrificing taste. Get ready to enjoy this fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas!
Ingredients:
This recipe provides a flexible base; feel free to adjust quantities to your liking and available ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favourite cheese!)
- ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic mixture with the uncooked rice, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly.
Bake: Pour the rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Finish it off: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for about 10 minutes before garnishing with fresh cilantro and serving.
Tips for the Best Rice Casserole:
- For extra flavour: Consider adding a diced bell pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a spicier kick.
- Don't overcook the rice: Follow the cooking time carefully to avoid mushy rice.
- Customize your cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend for a unique flavour profile.
- Make it ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and baked later, making it perfect for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Mexican Rice Casserole: Add a packet of taco seasoning and top with salsa and sour cream.
- Mediterranean Rice Casserole: Substitute black beans with chickpeas, add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese.
- Creamy Rice Casserole: Stir in ½ cup of sour cream or cream cheese before baking for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 300-350 Protein: 15-20g Fiber: 8-10g
This delicious and easy rice casserole recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of food recipes. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that everyone will love, making it a perfect example of delicious dishes achieved through straightforward homemade cooking techniques. Enjoy!