I discovered that transforming simple steamed rice into a luxuriously creamy, cheese-laden casserole creates the ultimate comfort food experience. This recipe elevates humble rice into a restaurant-worthy side dish that pairs perfectly with any protein or stands alone as a satisfying vegetarian main course. The combination of sharp cheddar and tangy sour cream creates an irresistibly creamy texture, while a hint of cayenne adds just the right amount of warmth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
After countless attempts to perfect this dish, I’ve found that the key lies in the balance between the rice and dairy components. The starch from the rice combines with the melted cheese and sour cream to create a velvety smooth texture that’s simply impossible to resist.
Ingredients
- 2 cups steamed rice (400g / 14oz)
- 1 cup sour cream (240g / 8oz)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely grated (100g / 3.5oz)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (2g)
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Lightly grease a 2-quart (1.9L) baking dish with butter or cooking spray
- Ensure your dish has enough depth to allow the ingredients to meld properly
2. Combine the Ingredients
- Add the steamed rice to your prepared baking dish
- Fold in the sour cream until every grain of rice is coated
- Add the grated cheddar cheese, ensuring even distribution
- Sprinkle the cayenne pepper throughout the mixture
- Gently stir until all ingredients are well combined
3. Baking Process
- Place the dish in the preheated oven
- Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese has completely melted
- Look for golden-brown spots on top and bubbling around the edges
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
I’ve learned that these small details make a big difference:
- Use room temperature sour cream for better incorporation
- Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded
- Don’t skip the resting period – it helps the casserole set properly
Storage and Reheating
This dish keeps beautifully in an airtight container:
- Refrigerator: Up to 4 days
- Freezer: Up to 2 months
- Reheat: Cover with foil and warm at 325°F (165°C) until heated through
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Recipe serves 6):
- Calories: 245
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 180mg
Recipe Variations
I’ve successfully tested these delicious variations:
- Add steamed broccoli florets for extra nutrition
- Mix in diced jalapeños for more heat
- Substitute Gruyere or Monterey Jack cheese
- Incorporate caramelized onions for depth of flavor
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Grilled chicken breast
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh garden salad
- Crispy bacon bits as a garnish
With its perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and subtle heat, this rice bake has become a staple in my kitchen. Whether served as a cozy weeknight dinner or brought to potlucks, it never fails to impress. The simplicity of preparation combined with its crowd-pleasing flavors makes it a reliable go-to recipe for any occasion.
