Introducing a delectable Tex-Mex delight that’s sure to elevate your mealtime experience – the Green Rice Chile Bake! This vibrant dish perfectly embodies the flavors of the Southwestern U.S., marrying the creaminess of cheese with the subtle kick of green chiles, all layered over a bed of fluffy long-grain rice. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet satisfying. 🌶️🧀
Green Rice Chile Bake Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, cut into 1/2-inch squares
- 2 cups sour cream
- 2 cans green chilies
- 6 cups cooked long-grain rice
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat and Prep: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, prepare your ingredients by cutting the Monterey Jack cheese into 1/2-inch squares.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cut Monterey Jack cheese with sour cream, green chilies, cooked rice, and black pepper. Stir gently until all the ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring a harmonious blend of flavors.
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Layer with Cheese: Once the mixture is evenly combined, transfer it to a baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer. Next, generously sprinkle the top with cheddar cheese, adding a delightful layer of gooey goodness that will melt into golden perfection as it bakes.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and let it bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly hot and irresistibly golden brown. Keep an eye on it as it bakes, ensuring it achieves that perfect balance of gooey and crispy textures.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked to perfection, remove the Green Rice Chile Bake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Scoop generous portions onto plates, savoring the enticing aroma that fills the air. Serve as a side dish alongside your favorite Tex-Mex main course or enjoy it as a standalone indulgence.
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Optional Freezing: If you find yourself with leftovers or want to prepare ahead of time, the Green Rice Chile Bake can easily be frozen for future enjoyment. Simply allow it to cool completely, then tightly wrap the baking dish or transfer individual portions to airtight containers before placing them in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 1042.6
- Fat Content: 32.7g
- Saturated Fat Content: 20.1g
- Cholesterol Content: 80.2mg
- Sodium Content: 330.6mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 155.2g
- Fiber Content: 3g
- Sugar Content: 2.5g
- Protein Content: 28.4g
Recipe Notes:
- For an extra kick of heat, feel free to use spicy green chilies or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- Experiment with different cheese blends to customize the flavor profile to your liking, such as adding a sprinkle of pepper jack cheese for an extra zing.
- Serve alongside fresh salsa, guacamole, or a dollop of creamy avocado for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
- This recipe can easily be doubled or halved to accommodate larger or smaller gatherings, making it incredibly versatile for any occasion.
With its irresistible blend of cheesy goodness and zesty green chiles, the Green Rice Chile Bake is sure to become a staple on your menu rotation. Whether served as a comforting side dish or enjoyed as a flavorful main course, this Tex-Mex masterpiece is bound to impress even the most discerning palates. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a culinary fiesta that celebrates the bold flavors of the Southwest! 🎉🍽️
