Pepper Jack Rice Bake

Pepper Jack Rice Bake is a creamy, cheesy casserole blending fluffy rice with spicy pepper jack cheese, savory vegetables, and zesty seasonings. Baked until bubbly and golden, it’s a comforting, flavorful one-dish meal perfect for family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy with a kick – pepper jack brings melty heat without overpowering

• Easy prep – mix and bake with minimal effort

• Complete meal – rice, cheese, and veggies in one dish

• Make-ahead and customizable – flexible for meal prep and ingredient swaps

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1½ cups long‑grain white rice, rinsed and drained

• 3 cups low‑sodium chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 cup diced bell pepper (mix of colors)

• 1 cup diced onion

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese, divided

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup frozen corn (optional)

• 1 tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp ground cumin

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)

• Optional garnish: chopped cilantro or green onions

directions

1. Preheat & sauté
   Preheat oven to 375 °F (190 °C). In a skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add bell pepper, onion, and garlic; sauté until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, mixing well.

2. Combine rice mixture
   In a large mixing bowl, combine rinsed rice, sautéed veggies, corn (if using), and 1 cup pepper jack cheese. Pour in broth and stir until evenly mixed.

3. Assemble & bake
   Transfer mixture into a greased 9×13″ baking dish. Sprinkle cheddar and remaining ½ cup pepper jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover tightly with foil.

4. Bake
   Bake covered for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–12 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

5. Finish & serve
   Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Bake time: 35–37 minutes

• Total time: ~45 minutes

Variations

• Protein boost: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked sausage for a heartier bake

• Veggie swap: Use diced zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach instead of—or alongside—bell peppers

• Heat level: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for more spice

• Cheese options: Substitute pepper jack with Monterey Jack or mix in queso fresco

• Mexican twist: Top with black beans, fresh salsa, sour cream, and avocado slices

storage/reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

• Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating

• Reheat: Warm individual portions in a 350 °F oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave until heated through

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes—but increase broth to 3¾ cups and bake covered for 45–50 minutes until rice is tender.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes—as long as broth and spices used are gluten-free.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes—use vegetable broth and skip meat or add beans as a plant-based protein.

Can I prep it ahead?

Absolutely—assemble in the dish, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake. Add 5–10 minutes to bake time if chilled.

Can I add beans?

Yes—drain and rinse one 15‑oz can of black or pinto beans and stir into the rice mixture before baking.

How spicy is it?

Mildly spicy. For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes—use a larger baking dish and increase rice, broth, and ingredients proportionally; monitor for doneness.

How creamy will it be?

With pepper jack and cheddar, it’s creamy with a slight bite; adjust cheese types to increase creaminess.

Can I use precooked rice?

Not recommended—liquid ratio and bake time are designed for uncooked rice.

What sides go well with it?

Pair with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, guacamole, or tortilla chips for a full meal.

Conclusion

Pepper Jack Rice Bake is the perfect balance of cheesy comfort and southwestern flavor, all baked into a hearty, satisfying casserole. With simple prep and endless customization, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner or make-ahead crowd-pleaser. Enjoy creamy, spicy, and wholesome in every bite!

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