Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole

Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole is a flavorful, creamy side dish that adds a Tex-Mex twist to any meal. Featuring gooey cheese, mild green chiles, and tender rice, this comforting casserole is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold yet family-friendly flavor
• Great side dish for grilled meats, tacos, or holiday mains
• Can be made ahead and reheated easily
• Budget-friendly and uses pantry staples
• Vegetarian and easy to customize with protein

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Cooked white rice
• Green chiles (canned, mild or hot depending on preference)
• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
• Eggs
• Milk
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder (optional)
• Diced onions or green onions (optional for extra flavor)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, green chiles, sour cream, shredded cheeses, eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings or onions.
3. Mix well until fully combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
5. Top with additional shredded cheese if desired.
6. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes or until the top is golden and the casserole is set.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 to 8 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Add cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage for a heartier version
• Use brown rice or cauliflower rice as a healthier alternative
• Stir in corn, black beans, or diced bell peppers for extra texture and color
• Spice it up with jalapeños or hot green chiles
• Use cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a twist

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes.
This casserole also freezes well; wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely. Make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it into the casserole.

Are green chiles spicy?

Most canned green chiles are mild, but you can use hot ones if you prefer more heat.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar and Monterey Jack are great, but any melty cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack works too.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based cheese, sour cream, and milk alternatives. The texture may change slightly.

Do I have to use eggs?

Eggs help bind the casserole, but you can use an egg replacer or leave them out for a looser texture.

How do I freeze this casserole?

Cool completely, wrap tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze. Reheat in the oven after thawing overnight.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, stir in corn, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

What protein can I add to make it a main dish?

Cooked chicken, ground beef, or black beans all work well.

Can I bake it in a cast iron skillet?

Yes, just make sure it’s well-greased and oven-safe. Adjust the baking time as needed.

Conclusion

Cheesy Green Chile Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food side dish that’s versatile enough to stand on its own or pair with your favorite mains. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a delicious crowd-pleaser you’ll come back to again and again.

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