Cheddar Rice Bake
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Cheddar Rice Bake—a rich and creamy casserole that combines tender, fluffy white rice with a velvety sharp cheddar cheese sauce. Perfectly seasoned with hints of garlic, paprika, and black pepper, this dish is crowned with a golden, bubbly cheese topping for a crave-worthy finish. Ready in just 45 minutes from start to finish, this one-pan wonder is an easy weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing side dish. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and serve it warm to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for busy nights or potluck gatherings, this flavorful bake is sure to become a family favorite!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups white rice
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking continuously, to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese for the topping.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Add the cooked rice to the cheese sauce and mix until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Serve warm and enjoy this comforting Cheddar Rice Bake!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
323 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 18.6 g | 24% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.3 g | 61% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 58 mg | 19% | |
| Sodium | 633 mg | 28% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 25.6 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.4 g | 1% | |
| Total Sugars | 4.2 g | ||
| Protein | 14.0 g | 28% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 385 mg | 30% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 186 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
