Cheesy Philly Rice Bake Recipe

This Cheesy Philly Rice Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender rice, a creamy cheese sauce, and the bold taste of Philly cream cheese. It’s the perfect side dish for any dinner, or it can even serve as a hearty main meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Cook the Rice: In a medium-sized pot, bring 4 cups of chicken broth (or water) to a boil. Stir in the rice, reduce the heat to low, and cover the pot with a lid. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

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2. Fluff the Rice: After resting, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and slightly translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

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2. Create the Sauce Base: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the softened Philadelphia cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until it starts to melt and combine with the onions and garlic.

3. Add the Dairy and Spices: Gradually pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, ground mustard, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like a stronger cheese flavor, add a little more cheddar or Parmesan. If you prefer more spice, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

Step 3: Combine Rice and Sauce

1. Mix Rice with Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice and the creamy cheese sauce. Stir until the rice is fully coated with the cheese sauce. Be sure to break up any clumps of rice.

2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or non-stick spray. Transfer the rice and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Bake

1. Prepare the Topping: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the rice mixture. If you like a crispy topping, you can also add a few tablespoons of breadcrumbs and a drizzle of melted butter or olive oil.

2. Bake the Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.

3. Garnish: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve this Cheesy Philly Rice Bake as a side dish with your favorite protein, such as roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a veggie stir-fry. Or, enjoy it on its own as a comforting main dish.

Tips for Success:

1. Rice Variations: While white rice is commonly used for this dish, you can substitute it with brown rice or even cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative. Note that cooking times will vary depending on the type of rice you choose.

2. Flavor Variations: Want to add more flavor? Try adding a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to the cheese sauce. You can also mix in some cooked spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.

3. Make it Meatier: If you want to add some protein to this dish, consider mixing in cooked shredded chicken, bacon bits, or even ground sausage. This will turn your rice bake into a one-dish meal.

4. Cheese Options: While this recipe calls for cheddar and Parmesan, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Gruyère for a different twist on the flavor.

5. Freezing and Make-Ahead Tips: You can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze it, prepare the rice bake, but do not bake it yet. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Creamy and Comforting: The Philly cream cheese makes the sauce rich and smooth, giving the dish a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Customizable: You can add vegetables, meats, or different cheeses to suit your personal tastes.
• Perfect for a Crowd: This dish is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings, serving a large group without much fuss.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance for an easy meal that’s ready when you are.

This Cheesy Philly Rice Bake is sure to become a family favorite with its creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for yourself or serving a crowd, this recipe delivers on flavor and comfort every time.

Yield: 6-8

Cheesy Philly Rice Bake Recipe

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This Cheesy Philly Rice Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender rice, a creamy cheese sauce, and the bold taste of Philly cream cheese. It's the perfect side dish for any dinner, or it can even serve as a hearty main meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice (you can also use brown rice)
• 1 lb chicken breast (or rotisserie chicken for ease)
• 1 packet (8 oz) Philadelphia cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (or vegetables of your choice)
• 1 cup milk (whole milk or a lower-fat option)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional for flavor)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
2. Prepare Rice: Cook rice if you don’t have pre-cooked rice ready. Set aside.
3. Cook Chicken (if using raw): In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked through. Shred the chicken once cooled.
4. Sauté Onion: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté diced onion over medium heat until softened (about 3 minutes).
5. Prepare Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the Philadelphia cream cheese over medium heat. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth and creamy. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, sautéed onion, peas, mozzarella, and half of the cheddar cheese. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir to combine.
7. Assemble the Bake: Pour the rice and chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them over the top as well.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
9. Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

• Variations: You can use cooked turkey, ground beef, or even keep it vegetarian by adding more vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli.
• Make Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day ahead and stored in the fridge before baking. Just increase the cook time by about 10-15 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
• Cheese Options: Swap out the cheeses for your favorites! Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Mexican cheeses work great as well.
• Vegetables: Frozen mixed vegetables or corn can be added for more variety.