Neufchatel Rice

Neufchatel Rice Recipe - French Rice Dish with Cheddar and Spices

Region / culture: France | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Neufchatel Rice is a delicious and creamy casserole dish that combines cooked rice, Italian-style vegetables, cheddar cheese, and neufchatel cheese. This dish is perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

History

Neufchatel Rice is a modern twist on traditional rice casserole dishes. The addition of neufchatel cheese adds a creamy and rich flavor to the dish, making it a favorite among many home cooks.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked rice
3 cups cooked and drained Italian-style vegetables
1.5 cups (6 oz / 170 g) grated cheddar cheese, divided
6 oz / 170 g diced neufchatel cheese
1 cup milk
0.25 cup chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
0.25 tsp dry mustard
0.13 tsp hot pepper sauce
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

How to prepare

Combine the rice and vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
In a saucepan, combine 1 cup of cheddar cheese, neufchatel cheese, milk, onion, garlic, salt, mustard, and pepper sauce.
Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring, until it is well blended.
Stir the sauce into the rice mixture.
Transfer the mixture into a buttered shallow 2 qt (1.89 liter) baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining 0.5 cup of cheese on top.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes, or until it is heated through.
Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use different types of cheese for a different flavor profile.
Add herbs and spices for extra flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the rice until it is tender but still slightly firm, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

- Be sure to drain the Italian-style vegetables well to prevent the casserole from becoming too watery.

- Feel free to customize the vegetables in this dish to suit your preferences.

- For a crispy topping, broil the casserole for a few minutes after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Neufchatel Rice can be served as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cream cheese instead of neufchatel cheese.

- Use any type of vegetables you prefer.

- Use any type of cheese you have on hand.

Make Ahead Tips

Neufchatel Rice can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Neufchatel Rice in individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Neufchatel Rice with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Neufchatel Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Neufchatel Rice contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

Neufchatel Rice contains approximately 35 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

Neufchatel Rice contains approximately 20 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

Neufchatel Rice contains approximately 15 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Neufchatel Rice is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Neufchatel Rice contains dairy and gluten.

Summary

Neufchatel Rice is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of calcium and vitamins A and C.

Summary

Neufchatel Rice is a delicious and creamy casserole dish that is perfect for a comforting meal. With a mix of rice, vegetables, and cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit with the whole family.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Marguerite in her quaint little cottage on the outskirts of town. Marguerite was known for her incredible cooking skills, and she had invited me over to share a new recipe she had discovered.

As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by the delicious aroma of something cooking in the oven. Marguerite ushered me into her cozy kitchen and handed me a glass of chilled lemonade. She then pulled a dish out of the oven and placed it on the table in front of me.

"Neufchatel Rice," she announced with a smile. "A delicious and creamy dish that I learned how to make from a French friend of mine many years ago."

I took a bite of the dish, and my taste buds were instantly delighted. The creamy texture of the Neufchatel cheese mixed with the tender rice and savory seasonings was a flavor explosion in my mouth. I immediately asked Marguerite for the recipe, and she happily obliged.

Over the years, I have made this dish countless times for my family and friends, and it has always been a hit. The recipe has become a staple in my collection, and I am excited to share it with you all today.

To make Neufchatel Rice, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup of long-grain white rice

- 2 cups of chicken broth

- 1 small onion, chopped

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 1 tablespoon of olive oil

- 1 cup of Neufchatel cheese, softened

- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

- Salt and pepper, to taste

To begin, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Next, add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it in the oil and aromatics. Cook the rice for a few minutes, until it starts to turn golden brown.

Then, slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the rice cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until it is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the Neufchatel cheese and Parmesan cheese until they are melted and well combined. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve the Neufchatel Rice hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

I hope you enjoy making and eating this delicious dish as much as I do. It has a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of the wonderful day I spent with Marguerite learning this recipe. Cooking truly is a magical art that brings people together and creates lasting memories. Bon appétit!