Introduction
If you’re looking for a flavorful, cheesy, and satisfying side dish, look no further than this Pepper Jack Rice Bake. With a creamy base, a colorful mix of vegetables, and just the right amount of spice from green chiles and pepper jack cheese, it’s the perfect companion to grilled meats, Tex-Mex mains, or cozy casseroles. It’s also hearty enough to stand on its own as a vegetarian dinner option.
Why I Love This Recipe
This rice bake is my go-to when I want something warm, cheesy, and just a little spicy. The combination of sautéed red bell pepper and onion gives it a flavor base, while sour cream and cream of celery soup add creaminess. Pepper jack cheese brings the heat and richness, and the golden cheesy top is everything. It’s ideal for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or as a make-ahead side for big meals.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1 medium red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 6 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 8 oz sour cream
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of celery soup
- 2 (4.5 oz) cans chopped green chiles
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese, divided
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Swaps & Notes
- Rice: Use leftover rice! Long grain white, brown rice, or even jasmine work well.
- Sour Cream: Greek yogurt works as a lighter sub.
- Chiles: Not into spice? Use just one can or swap with diced green bell pepper.
- Soup: Cream of mushroom or chicken also work in place of celery.
- Corn: Frozen or canned (drained) corn is just fine.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Sauté the Veggies
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped red bell pepper and onion. Sauté for about 8 minutes until soft and fragrant.
3. Mix the Casserole Base
In a large bowl, combine:
- Cooked rice
- Sour cream
- Cream of celery soup
- Green chiles
- Corn
- Cooked pepper and onion mix
- 1 cup of shredded Pepper Jack cheese
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir until evenly combined.
4. Assemble and Bake
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
5. Add the Cheesy Top
Remove foil and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Pepper Jack cheese over the top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
6. Cool and Serve
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Tips for Success
✔️ Use day-old rice for the best texture
✔️ For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix
✔️ Let it cool slightly before cutting for cleaner slices
✔️ Prep in advance and bake right before serving
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This cheesy rice bake is the ultimate sidekick to:
- Grilled chicken, pork chops, or BBQ ribs
- Spicy dishes like Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo
- Game day bites like Beer Cheese Dip
- Tex-Mex mains like Sheet Pan Quesadillas
- Serve with Easy Turkey Wings for the ultimate cozy dinner
Storage & Leftovers
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze leftovers or the whole unbaked dish for up to 2 months
- Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through
More Recipes You’ll Love
If cheesy, baked, and easy are your thing, you’ll love these:
- This Dorito Casserole Is My Favorite Weeknight Dinner Shortcut
- These Sheet Pan Quesadillas Are My Favorite Way to Feed a Crowd Fast
- This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo Is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort
Final Thoughts
This Pepper Jack Rice Bake is everything a good side dish should be: creamy, cheesy, comforting, and loaded with flavor. It’s easy to make, perfect to prep ahead, and always a hit at the table. Whether you serve it alongside your favorite protein or let it shine on its own, this bake is bound to earn a spot in your regular rotation.
Tried it? Tag @ChefManiac and show off your cheesy masterpiece! 🧀🌽🌶️
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