Parsley Rice Recipe

Parsley Rice Casserole Recipe – A simple, flavorful, and creamy side dish featuring fluffy rice, cheddar cheese, and fresh parsley. This easy baked rice casserole combines basic ingredients like eggs, milk, onion, and mustard for a delicious comfort food that’s perfect for any family meal or holiday gathering. It’s quick to prepare, and the result is a savory, cheesy dish with a subtle herbal kick from the parsley. Great for pairing with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even as a stand-alone dish. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with different cheeses or added proteins like chicken or sausage. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side or a dish to impress guests, this cheesy rice casserole is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs, beaten with a fork
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 ½ cups milk
• ½ cup vegetable or canola oil
• 1 medium onion, finely grated
• ½ tsp dry mustard
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup dry rice
• ½ tsp salt (for cooking the rice)
• 1 tbsp butter (for cooking the rice)

Instructions:

1. Begin by cooking the rice. In a medium pot, add 2 cups of water, ½ tsp salt, and 1 tbsp butter. Bring it to a boil, then add the dry rice. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Set aside.
2. While the rice is cooking, prepare the other ingredients. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, beat the eggs with a fork until well combined. Grate the onion and chop the parsley. Add both to the bowl. Grate the cheddar cheese and add it along with 1 tsp salt and ½ tsp dry mustard.
3. Stir in 1 ½ cups of milk and ½ cup of oil. Mix all the ingredients together until fully combined.
4. Once the rice is cooked, add it to the egg mixture. Stir to combine all ingredients.
5. Grease a 9×11-inch baking dish with butter. Pour the rice mixture into the dish and spread it evenly.
6. Bake in a preheated oven at 350˚F for 1 hour, until the top is golden and the casserole is set.

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Tips:

• Use fresh parsley for the best flavor, but if you have dried parsley, you can use that as well. Just reduce the amount slightly (about 1/3 of the fresh measurement).
• Ensure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the egg mixture for the best texture in the final dish.

Variations and Substitutions:

• Add cooked chicken or sausage for a more hearty dish.
• Swap cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Swiss.
• If you want a lighter option, you can substitute low-fat milk or use almond milk for a dairy-free version.

FAQs:

Can I use leftover rice for this recipe? Yes, leftover rice works great! Simply skip the cooking step and add the rice directly to the egg mixture.

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the rice mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions:

This parsley rice casserole pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It’s perfect for family gatherings or holiday dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This parsley rice casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and great for feeding a crowd. The rich, cheesy texture combined with the fresh parsley and onion gives it a delicious, savory flavor. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be served with almost any main course.