Easy Cheesy Lentil & Rice Casserole 🧀🍚

Overview:

This Easy Cheesy Lentil & Rice Casserole is a delightful creation born out of a quest for simplicity and flavor. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a nourishing meal without the fuss, this dish will win over even the pickiest eaters, including little ones. Bursting with the goodness of lentils, rice, and cheese, it’s a versatile option that can serve as a hearty side or a satisfying vegetarian main course.

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Serving: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:

• 1/4 – 1/2 cup margarine
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup dry lentils
• 1 cup rice
• 2 1/2 cups hot water
• 2 1/2 teaspoons chicken bouillon granules
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 slice bread
• Olive oil for frying
• Italian Seasoning blend

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

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   • Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Finely chop the onion and set aside.
   • In a bowl, mix the hot water with chicken bouillon granules until dissolved.

2. Cook the Onion:

   • In a large pot, melt the margarine over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.

3. Prepare Lentil and Rice Mixture:

   • To the pot, add the dry lentils, rice, and the prepared bouillon-water mixture.
   • Pour in the additional cold water.

4. Simmer the Mixture:

   • Bring the mixture to a boil.
   • Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Meanwhile, fry both sides of the bread slice in olive oil until golden brown, then sprinkle with Italian Seasoning blend. Let it cool on a rack.

5. Incorporate Cheese:

   • After 25 minutes, check that the rice is cooked and the lentils are tender but still firm, with some moisture remaining.
   • Turn off the heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

6. Assemble the Casserole:

   • Grease a 9 by 13-inch baking pan with non-stick spray.
   • Transfer the lentil and rice mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with the back of a spoon.
   • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

7. Add Bread Topping:

   • Use a knife to crunch up the cooled fried bread into small pieces.
   • Sprinkle the bread pieces over the casserole evenly.

8. Final Touch:

   • Sprinkle the shredded parmesan cheese over the casserole.

9. Bake the Casserole:

   • Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven.
   • Bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Serve and Enjoy:

    • Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving.
    • Serve this delicious Easy Cheesy Lentil & Rice Casserole as a flavorful side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main course.

This recipe is sure to become a family favorite with its comforting flavors and simplicity. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of lentils, rice, and cheese in every bite!