Chili Cheese Rice Casserole

Name: Chili Cheese Rice Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup chopped onions; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

I absolutely love making Chili Cheese Rice Casserole for family gatherings or cozy nights in because it's the perfect blend of comfort food and bold flavors. This dish is uncomplicated yet satisfying, combining hearty chili with gooey cheese and fluffy rice to create a truly irresistible meal. I always find it brings everyone together, sparking conversations and laughter, making it a staple in my kitchen. Plus, it’s an easy one-dish wonder that leaves me with minimal cleanup!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-05T18:09:27.747Z

When I first experimented with this Chili Cheese Rice Casserole, I wanted to create a detailed but straightforward dish that would please everyone, and it definitely succeeded! The combination of cozy rice, spicy chili, and bubbling cheese creates a divine oven-baked experience. I found that using a blend of different cheeses really elevates the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful surprise.

This casserole is incredibly versatile, too. You can easily swap in your favorite toppings like jalapeños or olives according to what you have on hand or your family's preferences. I’ve even added black beans for a protein boost and extra texture!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling, perfect for any occasion.
Cheesy goodness that will satisfy your cravings.
Great for meal prep and leftovers!

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in the Chili Cheese Rice Casserole plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. The combination of cooked rice acts as a hearty base that absorbs the flavors from the chili and spices, ensuring that each bite is satisfying. The shredded cheeses create a creamy, gooey topping that contrasts beautifully with the firm rice. Using both cheddar and Monterey Jack also adds depth, as cheddar offers a sharper flavor while Monterey Jack contributes smoothness and melts perfectly into the dish.

Sour cream adds not just creaminess but also a subtle tang that balances the rich flavors of the cheese and the savory chili. Onions and bell peppers introduce freshness and a slight crunch, enhancing the overall texture. If you want to add some heat, consider using a spicier chili or adding jalapeños to the mix for an extra kick.

For a healthier approach, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, which provides a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Opt for low-fat cheese or Greek yogurt in place of sour cream if you prefer lighter alternatives without compromising too much on taste.

Baking Tips for Perfect Cheese Layer

When baking the Chili Cheese Rice Casserole, monitoring the cheese is essential to achieving a perfectly golden and bubbly top. I recommend using a combination of both shredded and block cheese; block cheese melts better and can produce a stretchier texture than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents. If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

An important tip is to let the casserole sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting time allows the ingredients to set, making it easier to serve and enjoy without everything falling apart. Look for bubbling edges and a slightly browned top as signs that it is cooked through, but remember that the internal temperature should also reach 165°F (74°C).

If your casserole doesn't bubble as much as expected, it might be due to uneven mixing or insufficient heating during baking. Always ensure that the mixture is well-combined before transferring it to the baking dish, and if you find it too dry after baking, a splash of broth or water before baking can help maintain moisture.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients for your Chili Cheese Rice Casserole to make the preparation smoother.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice
1 can (15 oz) chili (with or without beans)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup chopped onions
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready before you start assembling the casserole.

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to whip up a delicious Chili Cheese Rice Casserole.

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the casserole mixture.

Mix the ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, chili, half of the cheddar cheese, half of the Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, onions, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

Transfer to baking dish

Pour the rice mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it evenly.

Add cheese topping

Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top of the mixture, adding more cheese for an extra cheesy top if desired.

Bake the casserole

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve

Remove from oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty Chili Cheese Rice Casserole!

This casserole is best served warm and can be paired with a fresh salad or cornbread.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize your casserole with additional toppings like olives, green onions, or jalapeños for an extra kick.

Storage and Reheating

Storing leftovers from the Chili Cheese Rice Casserole is easy and can be a lifesaver on busy evenings. Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, consider portioning it into smaller containers to make reheating easier later on.

When reheating, you can use either the oven or the microwave. In the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the casserole for about 20-25 minutes, covering it loosely with foil to prevent drying out. If using the microwave, heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming without overcooking the edges.

I also enjoy transforming leftovers into new meals. You can repurpose the casserole by topping it with a crispy breadcrumb mixture and baking it for a different texture, or turn it into quesadillas by placing it between tortillas and grilling until crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Chili Cheese Rice Casserole is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the richness. You can also offer a selection of toppings like fresh avocado slices, scallions, or additional cheese for guests to customize their portions. My favorite way to elevate the dish is by adding a dollop of guacamole and a sprinkle of cilantro on top before serving.

If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving the casserole directly from the baking dish for a rustic feel. Accompany it with some cornbread or tortilla chips for a fun, interactive dining experience. For a themed night, pair the casserole with a classic margarita or a refreshing iced tea, making it a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Don’t hesitate to spice things up! Adding hot sauce at the table allows guests to tailor the heat to their liking, which can make the meal more enjoyable, especially for those who like it a bit hotter.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for the chili?

You can use homemade chili or vegetarian chili. Adjust seasoning accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Cover well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw and bake as needed.