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Pepper Jack Rice Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Find it online: https://bakedbylisa.com/pepper-jack-rice-bake-recipe/