Pepper Jack Rice Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Pepper Jack Rice Bake is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with vibrant veggies, it’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons of oil
• 1 medium red bell pepper (finely chopped)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 6 cups of cooked rice
• 1 container (8 ounces) of sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of celery soup
• 2 cans (4.5 ounces each) of chopped green chiles
• 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups of shredded Pepper Jack cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a skillet, heat the oil over high heat. Sauté the red bell pepper and onion until softened, about 8 minutes.
3. Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sour cream, cream of celery soup, green chiles, corn kernels, sautéed vegetables, and one cup of Pepper Jack cheese. Mix well.
4. Step 4: Spread the rice mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
5. Step 5: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Step 6: Remove foil and sprinkle remaining cheese on top; bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
7. Step 7: Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use diced jalapeños instead of green chiles.
• Try substituting the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken for a different flavor.
• Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
• Add cooked shredded chicken to make this a heartier meal.

Storage

Store leftover rice bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the bake a day before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add the final cheese topping and bake when ready.

Is it possible to freeze the Pepper Jack Rice Bake?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.

Pepper Jack Rice Bake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 129 reviews

A flavorful and creamy Pepper Jack Rice Bake combining sautéed bell peppers and onions with cooked rice, sour cream, cream of celery soup, green chiles, corn, and spicy Pepper Jack cheese. This comforting casserole is baked until golden and bubbly, making it an easy and delicious side dish or vegetarian main.

• Author: Felix
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Vegetables & Aromatics

• 1 medium red bell pepper (finely chopped)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

Dairy & Cheese

• 1 container (8 ounces) of sour cream
• 2 cups of shredded Pepper Jack cheese (divided: 1 cup for mix, 1 cup for topping)

Canned & Packaged Goods

• 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of celery soup
• 2 cans (4.5 ounces each) of chopped green chiles

Grains & Oils

• 6 cups of cooked rice
• 2 tablespoons of oil

Seasonings

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over high heat. Add the finely chopped red bell pepper and onion, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 8 minutes. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the vegetables.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sour cream, cream of celery soup, chopped green chiles, corn kernels, and the sautéed bell pepper and onion. Add 1 cup of shredded Pepper Jack cheese and mix all ingredients thoroughly until well incorporated.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the well-mixed rice casserole evenly into the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish, ensuring a uniform layer for even baking.
5. Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Covering helps steam the casserole and meld flavors together.
6. Add Topping and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Pepper Jack cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to let it set for easier portioning and enhanced flavor.

Notes

• You can use fresh corn or frozen corn kernels; if frozen, thaw before adding.
• Ensure rice is cooked and cooled before using to prevent excessive moisture in the bake.
• This dish can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; increase bake time slightly if baking from cold.
• For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or increase the amount of green chiles.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: Pepper Jack Rice Bake, rice casserole, vegetarian casserole, cheesy rice dish, baked rice, comfort food, spicy rice bake