Cheesy Baked Rice Casserole

Cheesy Baked Rice Casserole Comfort Food Reimagined

By Amara Vitalis July 13, 2025

Table of Contents

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy some proper comfort food? This cheesy baked rice casserole is just the ticket. Honestly, it's so creamy and delicious, it's like a warm hug in a dish.

Brief Overview

Rice bake recipes are all about simplicity. This one is rooted in good ol' home cooking. It is an easy recipe. Prep takes 15 minutes, baking 35. This makes six generous portions.

Main Benefits

This homemade rice casserole is a hearty, satisfying meal. It is packed with cheesy goodness. Perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe is extra special.

Meet Your New Favourite: Cheesy Baked Rice Casserole

This Cheesy Baked Rice Casserole is proper comfort food rice recipe . It's creamy and cheesy. Think of it like posh mac 'n' cheese.

It's been around in different forms for ages. Every family has their own twist.

This is super easy. If you can boil an egg, you can nail this.

It takes 15 minutes to get everything ready and 35 minutes in the oven. Perfect for feeding six hungry mouths.

What Makes This Baked Rice So Blooming Good?

One of the best things about this Oven Baked Rice dish is its versatility. Plus, all that cheese provides a good dose of calcium! It's great for a weeknight dinner, a potluck, or even a cheeky main course.

Honestly, it's just so satisfying.

Time for the ingredients!

Alright, let's chat about what you'll need to whip up this amazing Cheesy Baked Rice Casserole. It's easier than you think, honestly.

Trust me, you'll feel like Mary Berry herself after this one!

Ingredients & Equipment

Main Ingredients: Your Shopping List Sorted

Okay, so first things first, let’s gather our ingredients. It’s all pretty straightforward, promise! This easy rice bake will become a staple in your home.

Rice: 1 cup (200g) long grain rice. Don't use that instant stuff! Get the good quality grains, yeah?
Chicken Broth: 2 cups (475ml) . Low sodium is best; we can always add more salt later.
Salt & Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon each. Just the basics!
Butter: 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted. Real butter is key for that buttered rice recipe .
Flour: 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose. This helps thicken the sauce, innit?
Milk: 2 cups (475ml) whole milk. Makes the sauce super creamy.
Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon ground (optional). Adds a little warmth.
Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (225g) shredded. Sharp or mild, your call. I prefer sharp for that extra kick! It will create the most amazing Cheddar Cheese Rice Bake .
Monterey Jack Cheese: 1/2 cup (50g) shredded. For extra meltiness.
Breadcrumbs: 1/4 cup (25g) panko or regular. Adds a nice crunch.
Melted Butter: 1 tablespoon for the breadcrumbs.
Parsley: Chopped fresh (for garnish). Makes it look all fancy.

For the rice, avoid anything that's broken or discolored. Good quality rice will be consistent in color and size. Same goes for the cheese: get a block and shred it yourself.

Pre-shredded cheese often has additives.

Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up (Or Don't!)

The nutmeg is totally optional, but honestly, it adds a little something special. It's a real comfort food rice recipe , you know? You could also throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper if you fancy a bit of heat.

For that true homemade magic, start with fresh, whole spices and grind them yourself.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

Right, now for the tools. Nothing too fancy here! This oven baked rice doesn't need much kit.

Baking Dish: A 2-quart one will do the trick.
Saucepan: Medium sized. For the cheese sauce and rice.
Whisk: To keep the sauce smooth.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Obvs.

Don’t have a whisk? A fork will work in a pinch. And if you don’t have a proper baking dish, an oven safe casserole dish will do.

This homemade rice casserole is all about making it work with what you've got!

Seriously, this creamy rice side dish is so simple, you'll be making it every week. So, let’s get cracking! And think about these amazing Rice Bake Recipes .

Let's Get Cheesy! Making the Ultimate Baked Rice Casserole

Oh my gosh, are you ready for some serious comfort food? We're talking about Cheesy Baked Rice Casserole , a dish so good, it's basically a hug in a baking dish.

Seriously! Think mature mac and cheese. Forget your worries, this is the perfect meal for a chilly evening. It's Easy Rice Bake at its finest.

Prep Steps: Mise en Place & Sanity Saving

Alright, first things first. Get your stuff together. It is essential mise en place before anything. Chop the cheese and measure everything out.

It's like having all your ducks in a row, you know? Plus, preheating the oven to 350° F ( 175° C) is a great place to start.

A safety reminder, don't forget to use oven mitts!

step-by-step to Baked Rice Bliss

Right then, let's get cooking!

Cook the Rice: Simmer 1 cup (200g) of rice, 2 cups (475ml) chicken broth, salt, and pepper for 18 minutes on low heat, covered, until cooked.
Make the Roux: Melt 4 tablespoons (57g) butter, then whisk in 1/4 cup (30g) flour. Cook for 1- 2 minutes constantly stirring.
Cheese Sauce Magic: Gradually whisk in 2 cups (475ml) milk and simmer for 5- 7 minutes , until thickened.
Add the Good Stuff: Remove from heat and stir in salt, nutmeg (optional), 2 cups (225g) cheddar cheese, and 1/2 cup (50g) Monterey Jack cheese.
Combine & Conquer: Gently fold cooked rice into the cheesy sauce. Pour into your baking dish.
Top It Off (Optional): Mix 1/4 cup (25g) breadcrumbs and 1 tablespoon melted butter, and sprinkle it on top for added crunch.
Bake it till bubbly: Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
Rest and Relax: Let it cool for 5- 10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Ever Rice Bake Recipe

Here are my top tips for a Stick Of Butter Rice that will knock your socks off.

Cheese is Key: Use a mix of cheeses for the best flavor.
Avoid Mushy Rice: Don't overcook the rice! Slightly al dente is the way to go. You can even make this ahead of time. Just assemble it and keep it in the fridge until you're ready to bake. Honestly, this Comfort Food Rice Recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights.

So there you have it! Oven Baked Rice that's easy, delicious, and totally comforting. Now go on and make some memories!

Recipe Notes: Elevating Your Cheesy Rice Casserole

So, you're ready to whip up this Easy Rice Bake ? Ace! Here's a bit of inside info to make your baked rice experience even smoother than a freshly buttered crumpet.

I'm not gonna lie, my first attempt at this was a bit…gluggy. But hey, we learn from our mistakes, right?

Serving Like a Pro

Plating and Presentation Ideas: Honestly, sometimes the simplest is best. A dollop of this Comfort Food Rice Recipe in a nice bowl is already winning.

But if you want to get fancy, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. Or, if you’re feeling really extra, serve it in individual ramekins.

Complementary Sides or Beverages: This Creamy Rice Side Dish pairs beautifully with roast chicken or grilled steak. A simple green salad cuts through the richness.

A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, is a classy touch.

Storing for Later (or Lunch Tomorrow!)

Refrigeration Guidelines: Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store your Homemade Rice Casserole in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll keep for up to 3 days.

Freezing Options: This Oven Baked Rice dish freezes surprisingly well. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer safe containers.

Reheating Instructions: To reheat from the fridge, microwave it until heated through, stirring occasionally. From frozen, thaw it overnight in the fridge first.

You can also reheat in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until bubbly.

Remixing Your Rice Bake Recipes

Dietary Adaptations: Want to make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour in the cheese sauce. For a dairy-free version, try using plant based butter, milk, and Cheddar Cheese Rice Bake alternatives.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In autumn, try adding roasted butternut squash to the Buttered Rice Recipe . In spring, some peas or asparagus would be lovely.

Nutrition Facts: The Basics

Okay, so this isn’t exactly health food, but it is soul food. One serving is roughly 450 calories , with 20g of protein , 25g of fat , and 40g of carbs .

Remember, this is just an estimate. Indulging in this Stick Of Butter Rice from time to time can bring joy too.

Now you've got all the tricks up your sleeve to make this baked rice dish a resounding success. Get in the kitchen and create some magic!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make baked rice ahead of time? It would save me a ton of time during the week!

Absolutely! You can assemble the baked rice casserole a day or two in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

If you've already baked it, you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, though the texture might change slightly upon reheating a bit like leftover takeaway fried rice, still tasty though!

Help! My baked rice is coming out too dry. What am I doing wrong?

Oh dear, nobody wants dry baked rice! Make sure you're using enough liquid the rice should be fully submerged during the cooking process. Also, ensure your oven temperature is accurate and avoid overbaking.

A good tip is to cover the casserole with foil for the first half of the baking time to retain moisture, then remove the foil for the final few minutes to brown the top.

What kind of cheese works best in this cheesy baked rice recipe?

That's a cracking question! While the recipe calls for cheddar and Monterey Jack, feel free to experiment. Gruyere adds a nutty depth, pepper jack gives it a spicy kick, and a touch of parmesan brings a lovely sharpness.

A good melting cheese is key for that lovely, gooey texture think of it like choosing your favourite chocolate for a chocolate brownie, it's all down to personal taste!

I'm trying to eat healthier. Are there any lighter options for this baked rice?

Of course, a lighter baked rice is totally achievable! Try using brown rice instead of white rice for added fibre and nutrients. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or use low-fat versions, and swap whole milk for skimmed or unsweetened almond milk.

Adding loads of vegetables like broccoli or spinach is another fantastic way to boost the nutritional value and volume without adding extra calories. It's all about those swaps and additions for a healthier twist!

Can I freeze baked rice?

Freezing baked rice is an option, but be aware that the texture of the rice and cheese sauce may change upon thawing. To freeze, let the baked rice cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place it in a freezer safe container. It’s best consumed within 2-3 months.

When reheating, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake in the oven until heated through. It’s a bit like freezing leftovers of your Sunday roast convenient, but not quite the same as freshly made!

What are some yummy additions I can add to my baked rice to spice it up?

Fancy jazzing up your baked rice? Go for it! Consider adding cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavour. Sautéed mushrooms and onions provide earthy notes. A sprinkle of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a fragrant touch.

And if you're feeling adventurous, a dollop of pesto stirred in before baking takes it to another level. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting like putting your own spin on a classic British dish!