Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole offers a delicious combination of creamy sour cream, spicy fire-roasted green chiles, and melted cheese, making it the ultimate comfort food. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only four main ingredients, and can be prepped in just five minutes. The layers of rice, sour cream mixture, and cheese bake to perfection, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and perfect for feeding a crowd, making it an ideal choice for family dinners, potlucks, or gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sour cream

• 4 oz diced fire roasted green chiles

• 3 cups cooked rice

• 8 oz Pepper Jack cheese, shredded

• 2 oz cheddar cheese, shredded

• Garnish with cilantro, parsley, or jalapenos (optional)

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Lightly spray an 8-inch square casserole dish with cooking spray.

3. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream and diced green chiles. Set aside.

4. Spoon 1 cup of cooked rice into the bottom of the casserole dish.

5. Spread one-third of the sour cream mixture on top of the rice.

6. Top with one-third of the shredded pepper jack cheese.

7. Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with a layer of cheese on top.

8. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.

9. Uncover the casserole and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Serve immediately and garnish with cilantro, parsley, or jalapenos if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add Chicken: For a heartier meal, add some shredded rotisserie chicken between the layers to make it a main dish.

• Spicy Version: Use spicy jalapeño peppers or a hotter variety of green chiles for an extra kick.

• Vegan Option: Substitute the sour cream with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cheese to make this casserole vegan-friendly.

• Extra Veggies: Add in some diced onions, bell peppers, or corn for additional flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

How can I make this casserole spicier?

You can add jalapenos, use spicy green chiles, or incorporate a few dashes of hot sauce to increase the heat in the casserole.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used instead of white rice for a healthier option. Just make sure the rice is fully cooked before assembling the casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it the next day as directed.

Can I freeze the Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole?

Yes, this casserole can be frozen. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden. You can also check the temperature in the center with a thermometer (it should be at least 165°F).

Can I make this casserole without cheese?

If you're looking for a dairy-free or vegan version, you can substitute dairy-free cheese or simply omit the cheese altogether. The casserole will still be creamy due to the sour cream mixture.

How do I get a crispy top layer?

To achieve a crispy top, uncover the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking. You can also broil the top for an additional 1-2 minutes if you prefer a more golden crust.

Can I use fresh green chiles instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh roasted green chiles, but make sure to dice them finely and adjust the seasoning to your preference.

What other cheeses can I use in this casserole?

You can substitute Pepper Jack cheese with other varieties like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Is this casserole spicy?

The casserole has a mild level of heat from the fire-roasted green chiles, but it's not overwhelmingly spicy. If you want more spice, feel free to add jalapenos or extra green chiles.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole is an easy and flavorful side dish that’s bound to become a favorite in your meal rotation. With just a few ingredients, it’s simple to make, delicious to eat, and versatile enough to customize. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone dish or as a side to your main course, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this cheesy, creamy, and slightly spicy casserole for any occasion!

Print