Baked Mushroom Bacon Rice 🍄🥓🍚

Overview:

This delectable Baked Mushroom Bacon Rice dish is a delightful creation inspired by NurseDi’s Mushroom Oven Rice. The addition of butter lends a luxurious richness to the rice, making it a delectable side that pairs perfectly with any meat dish. Whether you’re hosting a cozy winter gathering or attending a potluck, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress with its savory flavors and comforting aroma.

Total Time: 45 minutes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6

Ingredients:

1 cup basmati rice
8 slices bacon, diced
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup diced celery
1/2 cup diced onion
1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
2 cups chicken broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Dried oregano, a couple of pinches

Instructions:

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). If you’re using a fan-assisted oven, consider reducing the temperature by about 10 percent for optimal results.
Sauté the rice and bacon: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and rice to the skillet, and sauté for approximately two minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Add vegetables: Incorporate the diced celery, onion, and sliced mushrooms into the skillet with the bacon and rice mixture. Cook and stir for an additional 2-4 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften slightly.
Transfer to casserole dish: Once the vegetables are tender, transfer the entire mixture from the skillet into a large casserole dish, ensuring an even distribution of ingredients.
Combine with broth and seasonings: Pour the chicken broth over the rice and vegetable mixture in the casserole dish. Add the minced garlic, freshly ground black pepper, and a couple of pinches of dried oregano. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Bake: Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed, and the rice is tender and cooked to perfection.
Serve: Once baked, remove the casserole dish from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired, and serve this flavorful Baked Mushroom Bacon Rice alongside your favorite meat dish or as a standalone entree.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 505.8
Total Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 14.6g
Cholesterol: 61.3mg
Sodium: 845.3mg
Total Carbohydrates: 37.6g
Dietary Fiber: 1.8g
Sugars: 1.1g
Protein: 12.1g

Recipe Notes:

Butter vs. Margarine: The butter in this recipe contributes to its rich flavor profile, so it’s recommended not to substitute it with margarine for the best results.
Customization: Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the seasonings according to your taste preferences.
Storage: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Indulge in the savory goodness of this Baked Mushroom Bacon Rice, and let its irresistible aroma fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite among family and friends alike!