Description
This Green Chili Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender cooked rice, mild canned green chilis, and creamy sour cream blended with shredded cheddar cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection with a cheesy golden crust, it’s an easy and satisfying casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings.
Ingredients
Rice Mixture
- 4 cups cooked white rice
- 8 ounces canned green chilis
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided, reserve 1/2 cup for topping)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or cilantro
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s hot and ready when your casserole is assembled.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked white rice, canned green chilis, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Then, spread the rice mixture evenly in the bottom of the dish.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the rice mixture.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Enjoy!
Notes
- Use freshly cooked rice for best texture, or day-old rice works well to prevent mushiness.
- If you prefer a spicier casserole, substitute mild green chilis with hot green chilis or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- To make it lower fat, consider using reduced-fat cheddar cheese and light sour cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Southwestern
