Cheesy Baked Potato and Rice Casserole

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Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 3 medium potatoes (peeled and diced small)
  • 1 cup uncooked rice (short or medium grain works best)
  • 2 cups water or broth
  • 1 small onion (finely chopped)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

Creamy Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 2 cups milk (warm)
  • ½ cup cream (optional but recommended)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)

Cheese Layer

  • 2 cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or mix)
  • ½ cup grated parmesan (for golden crust)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents clumping.

In a pot:

  • Add rice and 2 cups water or broth
  • Bring to a boil
  • Reduce heat, cover, and cook for about 10–12 minutes (slightly undercook it)

Set aside. The rice will finish cooking in the oven later.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes. Smaller pieces cook faster and give a better texture.

Boil them in salted water for about 5–7 minutes:

  • You want them slightly tender, not fully cooked
  • Drain and set aside

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

In a large pan:

  • Melt butter over medium heat
  • Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent
  • Add garlic and cook for 1 minute

This step builds the flavor base of the dish.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Add flour to the pan and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes. This forms a roux.

Slowly pour in warm milk while stirring to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens.

Add:

  • Cream (optional but makes it richer)
  • Salt, pepper, paprika, thyme

Cook until you get a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl:

  • Add cooked rice
  • Add potatoes
  • Pour the creamy sauce
  • Mix gently

Add half of the shredded cheese and mix again.

Step 6: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).

Grease a baking dish.

Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly.

Top with:

  • Remaining shredded cheese
  • Parmesan cheese

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 30–40 minutes until:

  • The top is golden and bubbly
  • Edges are slightly crispy
  • The inside is creamy and soft

For extra browning, you can broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

Texture and Flavor Profile

This dish has:

  • A creamy, soft interior
  • Slightly firm rice texture
  • Tender potato bites
  • A crispy, cheesy golden top

The contrast between the creamy base and the baked cheese crust is what makes it irresistible.

Tips for Best Results

1. Don’t Overcook Rice Before Baking

It should be slightly firm since it continues cooking in the oven.

2. Cut Potatoes Evenly

Uniform size ensures even cooking.

3. Use Good Cheese

A mix of mozzarella (for stretch) and cheddar (for flavor) works best.

4. Let It Rest

After baking, let it sit for 5–10 minutes before cutting. This helps it set into neat portions like in the image.

Variations You Can Try

1. Add Chicken

Mix in cooked shredded chicken for a protein-rich version.

2. Add Vegetables

Include peas, carrots, or corn for extra color and nutrition.

3. Spicy Version

Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the creamy mixture.

4. Mushroom Flavor

Sauté mushrooms with onions for a deeper taste.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole can be served as:

  • A main dish (very filling)
  • A side dish with grilled meat or fish
  • A comfort meal on its own

Pair it with:

  • Fresh salad
  • Yogurt sauce
  • Roasted vegetables

Storage and Reheating

Storage

  • Refrigerate up to 4 days
  • Cover tightly

Reheating

  • Oven: best option (keeps texture)
  • Microwave: quick but softer texture

Add a little milk before reheating to keep it creamy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Skipping the sauce → dry casserole
  • ❌ Too much liquid → soggy result
  • ❌ Not seasoning enough → bland taste
  • ❌ Overbaking → dry texture

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe works because:

  • The roux-based sauce gives stability and creaminess
  • The cheese creates a flavorful crust
  • The rice and potatoes absorb flavors perfectly
  • Baking blends everything into one cohesive dish

Final Thoughts

This cheesy baked potato and rice casserole is the definition of comfort food. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers rich, satisfying flavor in every bite.

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