Creamy Baked Rice is a comforting dish that combines the richness of cream with tender, fluffy rice, baked to perfection. Here’s a basic recipe to make this dish:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch. In a medium-sized pot, bring the broth and heavy cream to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Add the rice, a pinch of salt, and garlic or onion powder if desired. Stir and cover. Allow it to simmer on low for 10-15 minutes, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the rice is almost fully cooked. If there’s still excess liquid, drain it off.
- Mix the Ingredients: Transfer the cooked rice to a greased 9×9 inch or similar-sized baking dish. Stir in the butter, shredded cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the rice is well coated.
- Bake the Rice: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is fully tender and creamy. You can remove the foil in the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to turn golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Garnish & Serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Tips:
- You can add vegetables like peas, corn, or mushrooms to make it more hearty.
- For added flavor, you can sauté some onions or garlic before mixing them into the rice mixture.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute some or all of the heavy cream with milk.
This creamy baked rice makes a great side dish or even a main course when paired with a protein like chicken or fish!
