Sure, here’s a detailed recipe for Spicy Mexican Cheesy Rice Casserole:
Spicy Mexican Cheesy Rice Casserole ๐ถ๏ธ๐ง
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cooked rice
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces green chilies, diced
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 tablespoons Recaito (cilantro cooking base)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Vegetable oil spray
Instructions:
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Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375ยฐF (190ยฐC).
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Prepare rice mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cooked rice, reduced-fat cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, diced green chilies, and finely chopped green onions. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
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Prepare sour cream mixture: In a separate small bowl, stir together the sour cream, Recaito (cilantro cooking base), cumin, chili powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Blend until the mixture is smooth and all the spices are fully incorporated.
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Combine mixtures: Add the sour cream mixture to the rice mixture and stir thoroughly, ensuring that all the rice is coated evenly with the creamy, flavorful mixture.
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Prepare casserole dish: Spray an oven-proof casserole dish with vegetable oil spray to prevent sticking.
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Layer rice mixture: Spread the rice mixture evenly in the prepared casserole dish, ensuring that it covers the bottom evenly and is spread out into a smooth layer.
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Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake, uncovered, for approximately 30 to 40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown and slightly crispy.
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Optional topping: For an extra cheesy finish, you can sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top of the casserole during the last few minutes of baking. This will create a deliciously gooey and golden cheese crust on top of your casserole.
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Serve: Once the casserole is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced avocado for a burst of freshness and color.
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Enjoy: Serve this Spicy Mexican Cheesy Rice Casserole hot, straight from the oven, as a satisfying and flavorful one-dish meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or any occasion. It’s sure to be a hit with the whole family, with its delicious combination of spicy flavors and gooey melted cheese.
This Spicy Mexican Cheesy Rice Casserole is not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious and satisfying. With its spicy kick and cheesy goodness, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or anytime you’re craving a taste of Tex-Mex comfort food. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get cooking on this irresistible casserole today!