Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that's both comforting and delicious? Look no further than this Cheesy Egg and Rice Bake! Imagine fluffy rice, vibrant vegetables, and gooey cheese all baked together in a golden, crispy crust. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and veggies. Perfect for families or meal prep, this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds. Ready to discover the secret to this cheesy delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 cup diced vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced vegetables, and 3/4 cup of the shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Pour the egg mixture over the rice and vegetable mixture, stirring gently to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on top of the dish for an extra cheesy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the ingredients to settle.
- Slice into portions and serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Use Leftover Rice: This recipe is a great way to repurpose leftover rice. Just make sure it's cooled before mixing it in to achieve the best texture.
- Mix and Match Vegetables: Feel free to customize the vegetable mix according to your preference or what you have on hand. Broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach work wonderfully!
- Cheese Varieties: While shredded cheese is a must, don’t hesitate to experiment with different types like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dish to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives not only adds color but also a burst of freshness to the dish.
- Make it Ahead: This bake can be prepared in advance and refrigerated. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 458kcal
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 25g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 412mg
