There’s nothing like a classic dish that brings comfort to the table, and Mom’s Baked Cheesy Rice is exactly that. Creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make, it’s the kind of recipe that feels like home. Whether you’re whipping it up as a quick side or serving it as the star of a cozy family meal, this easy comfort food classic is a side dish that goes with just about anything.
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The dinner-time struggle is real—every parent knows it. Even though my boys are grown, I see them facing the same challenge with their kids. That’s how my cheesy rice was born: a dish no one, kids included, can resist. This may be a simple recipe, but that’s what makes it so wonderful. Plus, its got cheesy crust takes this rice from good to over-the-top fabulous!
What Kind Of Rice Work Best For This Recipe?
Any rice will do—white, brown, jasmine, or basmati. Adjust the seasoning to complement the rice you choose. For a low-carb option, you can even use cauliflower rice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cooked Rice: Feel free to use white rice or brown rice and cook however you like. I like to do mine in the Instant Pot with chicken broth and salt.
- Sour Cream: Sour cream is the base of the creamy goodness, but Greek yogurt will also work.
- Cheese: I like to use sharp cheddar cheese for its sharpness and parmesan for its slightly nutty, umami flavor. Always grate your own cheese for the best cheesy texture!
- Cayenne Pepper: I like a bit of spice, so I always add a pinch of cayenne. But you can leave this out if your kids don’t like it.
- Parsley or Chives: For a little pop of color, garnish the dish with fresh herbs.
Tips For Making The Best Cheesy Rice
I’ve perfected this gluten-free recipe with these easy tips:
- Slightly warm rice mixes more easily with the other ingredients, ensuring the cheese and sour cream mix well. If using leftover rice, heat it slightly before combining.
- Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect how smoothly it melts and the flavor. Shredding your own cheese creates a creamier, more luscious dish.
- Don’t Skip the Topping! That golden, crispy parmesan topping adds irresistible texture and flavor.
Here’s How To Make Cheesy Rice
- Prep the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F and butter an 8×8 baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and cayenne pepper until evenly combined. Spoon the cheesy rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for a golden, bubbly crust. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Make It Your Own: Variations and Substitutions
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in cooked broccoli for cheesy broccoli rice, peas, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Protein-Packed: Mix in shredded chicken or crumbled bacon to make it a complete meal.
- Cheese Swap: Use Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rice. Make sure the rice is not overly dry before mixing with the other ingredients.
Absolutely. You can assemble the dish up to a day ahead, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Cheesy rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F or in the microwave until warmed through.
What Goes Well With Bake Cheesy Rice?
This rice pairs so well with a variety of dishes from Air Fryer Chicken Thighs to Honey Baked Ham. For main courses, try Grilled Flank Steak or Slow Cooker Balsamic Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Roast. For a vegetarian meal, you can serve it with Healthy Mushroom Soup or Roasted Sweet Potato Soup.
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Looking For More? Try These Classic Side Dish Recipes
If you tried Mom’s Cheesy Rice Recipe or any other recipe, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below. Thanks!
Ingredients
- 2 cups of cooked rice
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup of finely grated cheddar cheese preferably sharp
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Butter an 8×8 baking dish
- Mix the rice with sour cream, grated cheddar cheese, and cayenne pepper. Spoon it into the prepared dish. Top with grated parmesan cheese.
- Bake at 350 for 20 minutes – the cheese and top golden brown should be melted.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or chives and serve.
Notes
- Slightly warm rice mixes more easily with the other ingredients, ensuring the cheese and sour cream mix well. If using leftover rice, heat it slightly before combining.
- Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect how smoothly it melts and the flavor. Shredding your own cheese creates a creamier, more luscious dish.
- Don’t Skip the Topping! That golden, crispy parmesan topping adds irresistible texture and flavor.
Nutrition
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