Pepper Jack Rice Bake Recipe

Introduction

Pepper Jack Rice Bake is a comforting, cheesy casserole that brings together spicy pepper jack cheese, tender rice, and a medley of flavorful vegetables. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a hearty side for gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of oil
• 1 medium red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 6 cups of cooked rice
• 1 container (8 ounces) of sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of celery soup
• 2 cans (4.5 ounces each) of chopped green chiles
• 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups of shredded Pepper Jack cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a skillet, heat the oil over high heat. Sauté the red bell pepper and onion until softened, about 8 minutes.
3. Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sour cream, cream of celery soup, green chiles, corn kernels, sautéed vegetables, and one cup of Pepper Jack cheese. Mix well.
4. Step 4: Spread the rice mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
5. Step 5: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Step 6: Remove foil and sprinkle remaining cheese on top; bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or use a hotter variety of pepper jack cheese.
• Try adding cooked shredded chicken or black beans for extra protein and heartiness.
• Substitute cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
• Use a mix of white and brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot. For best texture, avoid freezing as the creamy sauce may separate.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can make a vegan version by substituting the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative, using vegan cheese, and replacing the cream of celery soup with a plant-based cream soup.

Is it necessary to use cooked rice, or can I use uncooked rice?

This recipe calls for cooked rice because it bakes for a relatively short time. Using uncooked rice would require additional liquid and a longer baking time to ensure the rice cooks properly.

Pepper Jack Rice Bake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 142 reviews

This Pepper Jack Rice Bake is a creamy, cheesy casserole combining cooked rice with sautéed bell peppers and onions, green chiles, corn, and Pepper Jack cheese. Baked to golden bubbly perfection, it makes a comforting and flavorful side dish or light main course with a mild spicy kick.

• Author: Lisa
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 medium red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

Wet Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 container (8 ounces) sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of celery soup
• 2 cans (4.5 ounces each) chopped green chiles

Grains and Dairy

• 6 cups cooked rice
• 2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese, divided

Seasonings

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the oil in a skillet over high heat. Add the finely chopped red bell pepper and onion, and sauté for about 8 minutes until they are softened and fragrant, which enhances their natural sweetness and flavor.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked rice, sour cream, cream of celery soup, chopped green chiles, corn kernels, sautéed bell pepper and onion, and one cup of the shredded Pepper Jack cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of all ingredients.
4. Assemble in Baking Dish: Spread the rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing out the surface for uniform baking.
5. Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the casserole to heat through.
6. Add Cheese Topping and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cup of Pepper Jack cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve: Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly before serving. This resting time helps the dish set for easier portioning and improves flavor harmony.

Notes

• Fresh or frozen corn kernels can be used, no need to thaw frozen corn before adding.
• For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or additional green chiles.
• You can substitute cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom for a different flavor profile.
• Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.
• For a low-fat variation, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.

Keywords: Pepper Jack, rice bake, casserole, cheesy rice, green chiles, baked rice dish