Rice and Cheese Casserole

Rice and Cheese Casserole Recipe - Made with Bacon and Cheddar

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Rice and Cheese Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that combines the flavors of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory olives. This casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.

History

The origins of Rice and Cheese Casserole are not well-documented, but it is a popular dish in many households across the United States. This casserole is a great way to use up leftover rice and create a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

0.67 cup of crisp crumbled bacon
3 tbsp of bacon drippings
1 cup of minced onion
1 cup of chopped celery
3 cups of cooked rice
1 cup of sliced stuffed olives
1 tsp of thyme
0.5 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of ground black pepper
1 can (10.75 oz or 305 g) of condensed cream of chicken soup
2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, divided

How to prepare

Fry the bacon in a large skillet until it becomes crisp.
Remove the bacon from the pan.
Drain the bacon well on absorbent paper and crumble it into small pieces.
Drain all but 3 tbsp of the drippings from the pan.
Add the onion and celery to the pan and cook until they become tender.
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the rice, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Heat the soup and 1 cup of cheese in a saucepan until the cheese has melted.
Add the sauce and bacon to the rice mixture.
Transfer the mixture into a buttered 1 qt (946 ml) casserole dish and top it with the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
Bake the casserole at 375°F (191°C) for 15 minutes.

Variations

Add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
Substitute the bacon with cooked sausage or ham for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the bacon until it is crispy to add a crunchy texture to the casserole.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, such as diced chicken or sausage.

- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken soup.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rice and Cheese Casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Make sure to cook the rice according to package instructions before adding it to the casserole.

- Be careful not to overcook the casserole, as it can become dry.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier option.

- Substitute the olives with diced pickles or roasted red peppers for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and bake it just before serving. Store it in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the casserole with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, before serving for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Rice and Cheese Casserole pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers 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 Casserole contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

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

Fats

Each serving of Rice and Cheese Casserole contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Rice and Cheese Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (in the condensed cream of chicken soup), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Rice and Cheese Casserole is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Rice and Cheese Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. With its crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and savory olives, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was a crisp autumn day, and I was rummaging through an old recipe box that belonged to my own grandmother. As I shuffled through the yellowed index cards and tattered pieces of paper, I stumbled upon a recipe for Rice and Cheese Casserole that caught my eye.

I had never heard of such a dish before, but the combination of creamy cheese and fluffy rice seemed intriguing. I could almost taste the savory goodness just by reading the ingredients list. Without hesitation, I decided to give it a try.

As I gathered the necessary ingredients and began to follow the instructions, I couldn't help but think of my grandmother. She was the one who had instilled in me a love for cooking and a curiosity for trying new recipes. I remembered her standing in the kitchen, her hands deftly working a rolling pin or stirring a pot on the stove. She always seemed to know just the right combination of flavors to create a perfect dish.

As the aroma of the casserole wafted through the air, I felt a sense of accomplishment. The rice was perfectly cooked, the cheese melted into gooey perfection, and the seasonings added just the right amount of flavor. I couldn't wait to share this new recipe with my own family.

When I presented the Rice and Cheese Casserole to my husband and children that evening, their eyes lit up with delight. They took their first bites eagerly, and I held my breath, hoping that it lived up to their expectations. To my relief and joy, they all exclaimed how delicious it was, and before I knew it, the entire casserole dish was empty.

From that day on, Rice and Cheese Casserole became a staple in our household. It was requested for family gatherings, potlucks, and holiday dinners. I was proud to have stumbled upon such a gem of a recipe, and I knew that it would be passed down through the generations.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touches and experimenting with different cheeses and seasonings. Each time I make it, I think of my grandmother and how she would have enjoyed a taste of this comforting dish.

I have shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, who have all raved about its deliciousness. It has become a go-to dish for many, and I am always happy to oblige when someone asks for the recipe.

As I sit here, reminiscing about the first time I made Rice and Cheese Casserole, I can't help but feel grateful for the joy that cooking has brought into my life. It is more than just a way to nourish my family – it is a way to connect with loved ones, to create memories, and to pass on a piece of myself to future generations.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting and delicious dish to share with your loved ones, look no further than Rice and Cheese Casserole. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll pass it on to your own family, creating new memories and traditions along the way. Cooking is a gift that keeps on giving, and I am grateful to have discovered this recipe that brings so much joy and warmth to those who taste it.