Rice and Cheese Bake II

Rice and Cheese Bake II Recipe - Easy and Delicious

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rice and Cheese Bake II is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. This recipe combines the creamy goodness of melted cheese with the hearty texture of brown rice, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.

History

Rice and Cheese Bake has been a popular dish in American households for decades. It is a versatile recipe that can be customized with different types of cheese, herbs, and spices to suit individual tastes. This version of the recipe adds a touch of mustard and red pepper for an extra kick of flavor.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked brown rice
1 cup (4 oz / 113 g) shredded cheddar or american cheese
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp salt
1 tsp prepared mustard
0.5 tsp onion powder
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
0.25 tsp ground red pepper
1 cup milk (made with nonfat dry milk)
2 eggs, beaten

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine rice, cheese, parsley, salt, mustard, onion powder, black pepper, red pepper, milk, and eggs. Mix well.
Turn the mixture into a greased 8x8x2 inch baking dish.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 30 to 35 minutes or until the center is firm. Be careful not to overbake.

Variations

Add cooked vegetables such as broccoli or spinach to the mixture for added nutrition.
Use different types of cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a different flavor profile.
Top the dish with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crunchy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the brown rice according to package instructions before adding it to the recipe.

- Use a good quality American cheese for the best melting and flavor.

- Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite herbs and spices, such as garlic powder or paprika.

- For a crispy top, broil the dish for a few minutes after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rice and Cheese Bake II with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a slice of crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

Baking

Ingredient Substitutions

Use white rice or quinoa instead of brown rice.

- Substitute cheddar or mozzarella cheese for American cheese.

- Use almond milk or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

Rice and Cheese Bake II can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or chopped chives before serving for a pop of color. Serve in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Rice and Cheese Bake II with a crisp white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Rice and Cheese Bake II in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Rice and Cheese Bake II contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Rice and Cheese Bake II contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Rice and Cheese Bake II contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Rice and Cheese Bake II contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Rice and Cheese Bake II is a good source of calcium, vitamin A, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese and milk) and eggs.

Summary

Rice and Cheese Bake II is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of calcium and other essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Rice and Cheese Bake II is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or potluck gathering. With its creamy cheese and hearty brown rice, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Rice and Cheese Bake II. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through an old cookbook that I had found at a yard sale. As I flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a simple yet enticing recipe for a cheesy rice casserole that caught my attention.

I had always been a lover of comfort food, and this recipe seemed like the perfect dish to add to my collection. I decided to give it a try, and as soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had found a new favorite.

The flavors of the creamy cheese, fluffy rice, and savory seasonings melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was both comforting and satisfying. I couldn't wait to share it with my family and friends.

Over the years, I have made this Rice and Cheese Bake II recipe countless times, each time adding my own little twist to make it even more delicious. It has become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that never fails to bring a smile to the faces of those who taste it.

As I reflect on how I learned to make this recipe, I can't help but think of all the other recipes that have found their way into my cooking repertoire. Each one has a story behind it, a memory attached that makes it special.

Some recipes were passed down from my own mother, who was a wonderful cook in her own right. I can still remember the smell of her homemade bread baking in the oven, or the taste of her creamy chicken and dumplings on a cold winter's night.

Other recipes were picked up during my travels, whether it be a spicy curry dish from India or a traditional pasta recipe from Italy. I have always been curious about different cuisines and love to experiment with new flavors and ingredients.

And then there are the recipes that have been shared with me by friends and family, each one a treasure that I hold dear. Whether it be a secret family recipe for chocolate chip cookies or a special marinade for grilled chicken, I am grateful for the generosity of those who have shared their culinary creations with me.

Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to express myself and show love to those around me. Each dish that I create is a labor of love, a way to bring joy and comfort to those who sit down at my table.

And so, as I continue to cook and bake my way through life, I am grateful for the recipes that have come my way, each one a gift that enriches my culinary journey. And as I sit down to enjoy a warm slice of Rice and Cheese Bake II, I am reminded of the joy that cooking brings and the memories that are created with each delicious bite.