Spicy Rice Bake

Dive into comfort food with a zesty twist and try this Spicy Rice Bake, a satisfying, flavor-packed dish perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. Bursting with vibrant ingredients like red bell peppers, black beans, sweet corn, and a hint of jalapeño, this hearty bake gets its smoky, spicy kick from chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Layers of melty cheddar cheese on top add a comforting richness, while a fresh cilantro garnish provides a pop of brightness. With simple prep, one baking dish, and bold Tex-Mex-inspired flavors, this baked rice casserole is an easy, crowd-pleasing meal that brings warmth and spice to your table. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone craving a wholesome, cheesy, and satisfying dinner option!

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1.5 cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 pieces garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced
• 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes, with juices
• 15 ounces black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned (drained)
• 1 medium jalapeño, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
• 0.25 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or a thin layer of olive oil.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is almost fully cooked. Set aside.

Step 3

While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in the minced garlic, red bell pepper, and jalapeño (if using). Cook for another 3 minutes until the vegetables are fragrant and slightly tender.

Step 5

Add the canned diced tomatoes (with juices), black beans, corn, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 6

Combine the cooked rice and the skillet mixture, stirring until everything is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 7

Pour the rice and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the shredded cheese, covering the surface completely.

Step 8

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9

Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired.

Step 10

Serve warm and enjoy your Spicy Rice Bake!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2598.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2353.0

Total Fat 95.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 42.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.8g
Cholesterol 180.0mg	0%
Sodium 6416.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 289.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 53.8g	0%
Total Sugars 50.4g
Protein 103.3g	0%

Vitamin D 36IU	0%
Calcium 1670.9mg	0%
Iron 21.9mg	0%
Potassium 4703.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.3%

Protein: 17.0%

Carbs: 47.7%