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A close-up shot of the creamy cheese sauce being mixed into cooked rice before making the cheesy rice bake.

Cheesy Rice Bake: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Discover the ultimate Cheesy Rice Bake recipe! This simple, creamy, and satisfying casserole is a perfect weeknight dinner, made with a rich cheese sauce and baked to golden-brown perfection. A guaranteed family favorite!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cooked white rice cooled
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper or to taste

Equipment

  • 1 9x13 inch Baking Dish
  • 1 Large Saucepan

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly, to form a smooth paste (roux).
  3. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking vigorously to prevent any lumps from forming. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the prepared cheese sauce. Stir until the rice is evenly coated.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
  7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling. Let the bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Tip 1: For the creamiest sauce, use freshly shredded cheese. Pre-packaged shredded cheeses contain additives that can make the sauce grainy.
Tip 2: Feel free to add cooked protein like shredded chicken or ground beef, or vegetables like steamed broccoli to make this a complete one-pan meal.