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Cheesy Spinach Rice Casserole

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Green Rice Casserole: A Simple and Delicious Oven-Baked Dish

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Green Rice, a delightful and easy-to-make casserole that brings together the goodness of spinach, eggs, and cheese, all enveloped in a savory, buttery goodness. This recipe, perfect for pairing with chicken or incorporating leftover chicken, is a wonderful way to make a satisfying side dish or even a standalone meal. Here’s how to create this delectable dish that’s both simple and quick, requiring just 40 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
  • 3 cups cooked rice (preferably cold or room temperature)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons green onion tops, chopped
  • 1/2 cup butter (about 1 stick), cut into small pieces
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and gets a golden top.

  2. Prepare the Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish with a bit of butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup easier.

  3. Combine Spinach and Rice: In a large bowl, gently toss together the chopped spinach and cooked rice until well combined. The spinach adds a fresh, vibrant green color and a healthy boost to the dish.

  4. Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. This mixture will help bind the rice and spinach together, creating a cohesive texture.

  5. Add Flavorings: Stir in the finely chopped onion and green onion tops into the rice and spinach mixture. These add a burst of flavor and a bit of crunch to the casserole.

  6. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the rice and spinach mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly with a spatula. Dot the top with small pieces of butter, which will melt and create a rich, flavorful crust as the casserole bakes.

  7. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt into a deliciously gooey layer, adding both flavor and a delightful golden-brown finish.

  8. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. The casserole is ready when the top is golden and bubbly, and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.

  9. Serve and Enjoy: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to cut into servings. Green Rice is perfect as a side dish with chicken or on its own for a comforting meal.

Nutrition Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 209.8
  • Fat: 10.6 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 6.3 grams
  • Cholesterol: 79.8 milligrams
  • Sodium: 417.8 milligrams
  • Carbohydrates: 21.9 grams
  • Fiber: 0.3 grams
  • Sugar: 0.3 grams
  • Protein: 6.2 grams

Notes:

  • Variation: Feel free to add leftover chicken or other cooked meats to the rice mixture for a heartier dish.
  • Cheese Options: If cheddar isn’t your favorite, you can substitute with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
  • Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, omit any meat additions and enjoy this dish as a tasty meat-free option.

Enjoy this easy, versatile, and scrumptiously cheesy Green Rice casserole as a delightful addition to any meal. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household! 🌿🧀🍽️

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