Baked Rice and Egg Casserole

Baked Rice and Egg Casserole is a comforting and versatile dish that brings together fluffy rice, creamy eggs, and a savory combination of flavors in one hearty meal. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this casserole can be enjoyed on its own or served with a side of vegetables, meats, or a simple salad. The beauty of this casserole lies in its adaptability; you can customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

This recipe combines rice, eggs, and cheese (optional), and can be flavored with various herbs, vegetables, and seasonings. It’s a great way to use up leftover rice, and it’s easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy mornings or as a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings.

Ingredients:

For the Casserole:

• 2 cups (375g) cooked rice (white, brown, or a mix of both)
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) milk (or dairy-free alternative)
• 1/2 cup (60g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination; optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
• 1/4 cup (60g) cooked vegetables (spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, etc.) (optional)
• 1/4 cup (60g) cooked meat (ham, bacon, sausage, or chicken) (optional)

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Hot sauce or salsa

Equipment:

• 9×9-inch (or similar) baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spoon for stirring
• Knife (if using vegetables or meat)

Preparation:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Time: 5 minutes

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the casserole once the ingredients are prepared.

2. Prepare the Baking Dish:

Time: 2 minutes

• Lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish (or an equivalent size dish) with olive oil, butter, or non-stick cooking spray. This will help the casserole not stick to the pan and make it easier to serve later.

3. Prepare the Rice:

Time: 5 minutes

• If you don’t already have cooked rice, cook 1 cup of dry rice according to the package instructions. You’ll need about 2 cups of cooked rice for this casserole. You can use white rice, brown rice, or a combination of both, depending on your preference.

Note: Leftover rice works perfectly for this recipe, as it gives the casserole a more cohesive texture. If you are using leftover rice, ensure it’s at room temperature or slightly warmed.

4. Make the Egg Mixture:

Time: 5 minutes

• In a large mixing bowl, crack 6 large eggs and whisk them together until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
• Add 1 cup of milk (you can use any milk, including dairy or plant-based options like almond or oat milk) and continue to whisk.
• Season with 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste. You can adjust these seasonings based on your flavor preferences.
• If you’re adding cheese, stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend). This will add richness and flavor to the casserole. You can also reserve a little cheese to sprinkle on top for a golden, cheesy crust.

5. Combine the Rice and Egg Mixture:

Time: 3 minutes

• Add the cooked rice into the egg mixture and stir gently to combine, ensuring the rice is fully coated with the egg mixture.
• If you’re adding cooked vegetables (such as sautéed spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms), or cooked meat (like diced ham, crumbled sausage, or bacon), fold these ingredients into the rice and egg mixture. These additions will add flavor and texture to the casserole.

Note: If you prefer a more veggie-heavy casserole, feel free to add extra vegetables like onions, tomatoes, zucchini, or even a handful of spinach or kale.

6. Pour the Mixture into the Baking Dish:

Time: 1 minute

• Pour the rice and egg mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spoon or spatula to ensure the casserole cooks uniformly.

7. Bake the Casserole:

Time: 30-40 minutes

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set in the center and lightly golden on top. The eggs should be fully cooked through, and a toothpick inserted into the center of the casserole should come out clean.
• If you like a golden, crispy top, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

8. Let It Rest:

Time: 5 minutes

• Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the casserole to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions:

• For Breakfast or Brunch: Serve the baked rice and egg casserole with fresh fruit, a side salad, or toast. For an extra indulgent brunch, top with avocado slices and a drizzle of hot sauce or salsa.
• For Dinner: Pair the casserole with a green salad or some roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. It’s also excellent with a simple tomato salad or a side of steamed broccoli.
• Garnishes: You can garnish the casserole with fresh chopped herbs such as parsley, cilantro, or chives for a burst of freshness.

Notes:

• Make-Ahead Option: This casserole can be prepared the night before and stored in the refrigerator. Simply assemble the casserole (step 5) and cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and bake as directed. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the fridge.
• Substituting Rice: If you prefer to use quinoa, couscous, or farro, you can substitute those grains for the rice. Just make sure they are cooked before adding them to the casserole.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables, such as roasted tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or cooked spinach.
• Dairy-Free Version: To make the casserole dairy-free, use a plant-based milk and leave out the cheese. You can replace the cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative if desired.

Conclusion:

Baked Rice and Egg Casserole is a versatile, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that can be enjoyed at any time of day. With its combination of fluffy rice, creamy eggs, and savory seasonings, this casserole makes a satisfying meal that’s perfect for using up leftovers or for a quick weeknight dinner. Customize it with your favorite vegetables and meats for endless variations, and enjoy this delicious casserole with your family and friends!