Looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare? Look no further! Creamy rice casseroles are a staple in many households, and with good reason. These hearty dishes are perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even just a cozy night in. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different creamy rice casserole recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic comfort food combinations like cheesy broccoli and chicken and wild rice, to more adventurous options like spicy jambalaya and curry with chickpeas, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a party planner seeking a crowd-pleasing main course, these creamy rice casseroles are sure to hit the spot.
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This classic casserole combines the simplicity of rice and broccoli with the indulgence of melted cheese, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, and grated cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and melted butter.
4. Pour the milk mixture over the rice mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Wild Rice Casserole
A comforting, one-dish meal that combines the flavors of chicken, wild rice, and vegetables for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups cooked wild rice
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in olive oil until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the wild rice, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese and milk.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beefy Mushroom Rice Casserole
A comforting, one-dish meal that combines the flavors of beef, mushrooms, and savory rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked rice with the beef mixture; mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with cheddar cheese (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Rice Casserole
A creamy and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of spinach and artichokes with the comfort of warm rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle parsley on top of the casserole.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Rice Casserole with Black Beans
This flavorful casserole combines the richness of Mexican rice with the protein-packed goodness of black beans, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla crust. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar) for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add black beans; cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked rice with bean mixture.
6. Arrange tortillas in a single layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon rice mixture over tortillas.
7. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Rice Casserole with Peas
This tuna rice casserole is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With its creamy sauce, tender tuna, and sweet peas, it’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the tuna, peas, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until combined.
4. Combine cooked rice with the tuna mixture.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with grated cheddar cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Jambalaya Rice Casserole
This Jambalaya Rice Casserole is a twist on the classic one-pot dish, with the added convenience of being baked in the oven. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef, onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned.
3. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir well.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
6. Layer the beef mixture, then the rice mixture in the prepared dish.
7. Top with chopped parsley and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Rice Casserole with Cheese
A comforting and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the simplicity of rice, vegetables, and cheese with a crunchy topping.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup crushed crackers or breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, mixed vegetables, shredded cheese, milk, olive oil, chopped onion, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pork Chop and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of tender pork chops, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork chops
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pork chops according to package instructions until browned, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and bell pepper in butter until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter. Arrange the pork chops on top of the rice mixture.
6. Pour the sautéed onion and bell pepper mixture over the pork chops.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Casserole
A flavorful and comforting casserole that combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the savory taste of chicken, served over a bed of fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken in teriyaki sauce until cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic powder.
4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray.
5. Add the cooked chicken on top of the rice mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
7. Garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bacon and Cheddar Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon and melted cheddar cheese with fluffy white rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using the 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the same skillet and cook until softened.
5. Combine cooked rice, cooked bacon, and onion mixture in a large mixing bowl.
6. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and paprika.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Greek Rice Casserole with Feta and Olives
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of Greece with a delicious blend of rice, feta cheese, and olives. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 can (6 oz) pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 block (8 oz) crumbled feta cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. Combine cooked rice, cooked onion mixture, sliced olives, crumbled feta cheese, and dried oregano in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Southwest Rice Casserole with Corn
A flavorful and filling casserole that combines the warmth of the Southwest with the sweetness of corn, perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (15.25 oz) whole kernel corn, drained
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the diced tomatoes with green chilies and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in the whole kernel corn, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked rice, corn mixture, and chopped cilantro in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Rice Casserole
A flavorful and aromatic casserole that combines the sweetness of lemons with the savory flavor of garlic, shrimp, and rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. In a separate pot, combine cooked rice and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half the rice mixture in the bottom. Top with the shrimp, then cover with the remaining rice mixture.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and slightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey and Rice Casserole with Cranberries
This hearty casserole combines the comforting flavors of turkey, rice, and vegetables with the sweetness of cranberries. A perfect blend of savory and tangy, it’s a delicious twist on traditional comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb cooked turkey breast or thighs, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cranberries
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cooked turkey, rice, cranberries, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the turkey mixture, then the vegetable mixture, and finally the cheddar cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Curry Rice Casserole with Chickpeas
This flavorful casserole combines the comfort of rice and beans with the warmth of curry spices, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. A satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions, set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add curry powder, cumin, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir for 1 minute.
5. Stir in chickpeas and cooked rice.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple Fried Rice Casserole
Pineapple Fried Rice Casserole: A Sweet Twist on a Classic Dish
This unique casserole combines the flavors of pineapple and fried rice with savory chicken and spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add frozen vegetables and cook until thawed.
3. Add cooked chicken, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked rice, pineapple chunks, and vegetable-chicken mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Rice Casserole with Parmesan
A flavorful and satisfying side dish that combines the simplicity of cooked rice with the brightness of fresh herbs and the richness of Parmesan cheese. This herby casserole is perfect for accompanying a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, parsley, basil, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and mix well until the herbs are evenly distributed.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 18 creamy rice casserole recipes that are sure to become comfort food favorites. From classic combinations like cheesy broccoli and chicken and wild rice, to international twists like Greek and Mexican, there’s something for everyone. These hearty dishes feature a range of ingredients, including beef, pork, chicken, shrimp, and vegetables, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce and topped with melted cheese or crunchy toppings. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing main dish for the holidays, these rice casseroles have got you covered.
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