Crock Pot Arroz Con Queso Recipe

Overview:

This Crock Pot Arroz Con Queso recipe is a delightful blend of rice, cheese, and beans, simmered to perfection in your trusty slow cooker. With just a little prep time and a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for those busy days when you crave comfort food without all the fuss.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Total Time: 8 hours and 10 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups long grain brown rice
1 can diced tomatoes
1 cup cottage cheese
3 garlic cloves
1 onion
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cans green chilies
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 cup corn kernels
2 cups grated Monterey Jack cheese

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 445
Fat: 19.4g
Saturated Fat: 9.2g
Cholesterol: 38.8mg
Sodium: 912.9mg
Carbohydrates: 50.4g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4.4g
Protein: 19.1g

Instructions:

Prepare Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and measuring them out according to the list above. Don’t forget to set aside 1 cup of the grated Monterey Jack cheese for later use.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the long grain brown rice, diced tomatoes, cottage cheese, minced garlic cloves, finely chopped onion, olive oil, canned green chilies, salt, chili powder, and corn kernels. Mix everything together until well combined, making sure to break up the tomatoes carefully.
Transfer to Crock Pot: Grease the interior of your crock pot generously to prevent sticking. Transfer the mixed ingredients into the crock pot, spreading them out evenly.
Cook: Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on the low setting. Let it simmer away for 6 to 9 hours, allowing all the flavors to meld together and the rice to become tender. The slow cooking process is what gives this dish its irresistible flavor and texture.
Final Touch: Just before serving, sprinkle the reserved grated Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the cooked dish. This adds a deliciously gooey layer of cheese that ties everything together beautifully.
Serve and Enjoy: Scoop out generous portions of the Crock Pot Arroz Con Queso onto plates or into bowls. The creamy cheese, tender rice, and savory beans make for a filling and satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Serve it alongside your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, or fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Store Leftovers: If you happen to have any leftovers (though it’s unlikely with a dish this tasty), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and easy meal whenever hunger strikes.

Tips and Variations:

Spice It Up: If you like your food with a bit of a kick, feel free to add some diced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
Add Protein: For an extra protein boost, you can stir in some cooked chicken, ground beef, or black beans.
Cheese Lover’s Dream: Experiment with different types of cheese to find your perfect flavor combination. Pepper Jack, cheddar, or even queso fresco would all work beautifully in this dish.
Make It Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can easily make it vegan by omitting the cottage cheese and using a plant-based cheese alternative instead.

With its simple preparation and delicious results, this Crock Pot Arroz Con Queso is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests on the weekend, it’s guaranteed to impress with its comforting flavors and hearty texture. Enjoy! 🍲🧀