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Irresistible Pepper Jack Rice Bake

A cheesy and creamy rice bake featuring pepper jack cheese, perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Casserole, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 cups cooked white rice
  • 2.5 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 0.5 cup sour cream
  • 1 can (4 ounces) diced green chiles, drained
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
  • 0.5 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 0.5 cup diced yellow onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon chili powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Sliced green onions (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
  3. Cook rice according to package directions, fluff with a fork, and let it cool slightly.
  4. In a cast iron skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then add the diced onion and red bell pepper; sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Mixing
  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, softened cream cheese, sour cream, diced green chiles, corn, and all spices. Stir until thoroughly mixed.
  2. Fold in 2 cups of shredded pepper jack cheese until evenly mixed.
Baking
  1. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of pepper jack cheese over the top.
  2. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melty and bubbly, with edges turning golden brown.
  3. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  4. Garnish with cilantro and green onions if desired.

Notes

To make it healthier, you can add greens like spinach or kale and consider Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. This dish can also be made vegan or gluten-free with appropriate substitutions.