Creamy & Flavorful Cheesy Vegetable Rice Casserole: A Dorothy Lynch Family Favorite
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delightful Cheesy Vegetable Rice Casserole, perfectly seasoned with the one-of-a-kind Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing. This hearty dish masterfully combines fluffy long-grain rice and a vibrant medley of mixed vegetables, all baked to golden perfection with a generous blend of sharp cheddar and savory Parmesan cheeses. Whether you’re searching for a satisfying side dish to complement your favorite mains or a robust vegetarian meal that the whole family will adore, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease. Even the pickiest eaters, those who might typically shy away from vegetables, are sure to be won over by its rich, cheesy goodness.
As a family, rice is a consistent presence at our dinner table. It’s an incredibly versatile and fuss-free side that pairs wonderfully with an endless array of main courses. However, today, we’re elevating this simple grain into a show-stopping casserole – a baked masterpiece brimming with wholesome vegetables and two layers of irresistible cheese. This isn’t just another rice dish; it’s a flavorful experience designed to satisfy even the most discerning palates and become a cherished addition to your recipe repertoire.
This post is proudly sponsored by Nebraska’s own Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing & Condiment. My deep appreciation for their product and the culinary opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Cheesy Rice with Vegetables: A Flavorful Journey
This delightful cheesy vegetable rice recipe is a symphony of flavors and textures. It starts with perfectly cooked long-grain rice, which serves as a comforting base. To this, we add an abundant assortment of vibrant frozen vegetables, ensuring a colorful and nutritious boost. The secret ingredient that ties all these elements together is the iconic Dorothy Lynch dressing – a sweet, spicy, and wonderfully thick and creamy condiment that infuses the entire dish with its distinctive Nebraska charm. To truly make it a “cheesy” sensation, we incorporate rich cheddar cheese directly into the casserole mixture and then finish it with a golden crown of grated Parmesan cheese on top. This double dose of cheese, combined with Dorothy Lynch’s unique flavor, creates an unparalleled taste experience that is guaranteed to become a true family favorite.
The Enduring Appeal of Cheesy Vegetable Rice Casserole
For years, Dorothy Lynch dressing has been my culinary companion, consistently adding an unmatched depth of flavor to countless meals. This distinctive sweet and spicy, tomato-based dressing holds a special place in my heart, not only for its incredible taste but also because it hails from my home state of Nebraska. It’s far more than just a salad dressing; it’s a versatile condiment loaded with character that shines whether drizzled over salads, used as a dipping sauce, or, as in this recipe, woven into the fabric of a hearty casserole. The rich flavor profile of Dorothy Lynch transforms a simple cheesy vegetable rice casserole into something truly extraordinary.
If you’re as enamored with the unique taste of Dorothy Lynch as I am, you’ll be thrilled to discover more of my Dorothy Lynch recipes linked at the bottom of this post. These recipes showcase the incredible versatility of this beloved dressing, offering new ways to infuse your dishes with its signature taste.
Should this delightful cheesy rice side dish capture your heart, you’re also likely to fall in love with these other comforting and flavorful rice creations: our beloved Mom’s Broccoli Rice and Cheese Casserole, the elegant Rice Pilaf with Dried Cranberries and Slivered Almonds, and the ever-reliable Basic Garlic Fried Rice. Each offers a unique spin on rice, perfect for any occasion.
Dorothy’s Cheesy Rice Vegetable Bake: Versatile Serving Options
This baked cheesy rice vegetable bake offers the perfect harmony of tender rice and wholesome vegetables, making it an incredibly versatile dish for any occasion. It can effortlessly serve as a hearty side, complementing a wide range of your favorite main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled steak. Alternatively, it stands beautifully on its own as a fulfilling vegetarian main meal, ideal for a meatless Monday or a lighter dinner option. Its crowd-pleasing appeal makes it a stellar choice for potlucks, family gatherings, holiday feasts, or simply whenever you crave the comforting warmth of a cheesy casserole. This easy-to-follow recipe is designed to be a go-to solution for delicious, satisfying meals.
Key Ingredients for This Cheesy Rice Recipe
Crafting this irresistible cheesy vegetable rice is straightforward, requiring a selection of readily available ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. For a comprehensive list of ingredients and detailed instructions, please refer to the full printable recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this article.
- White rice: While I prefer using long-grain white rice for its fluffy texture, feel free to substitute with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, or any other variety you might have in your pantry.
- Butter: Both salted and unsalted butter work wonderfully, adding a rich, creamy base. For a dairy-free alternative, olive oil can be used.
- Onion: Any type of onion, finely chopped, provides an essential aromatic foundation and a subtle sweetness to the dish.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic offers the most vibrant flavor, but for convenience, jarred minced garlic is a suitable alternative.
- Basil: Dried basil contributes an earthy, slightly peppery note, enhancing the overall herbiness of the rice.
- Frozen vegetables: A standard bag of frozen mixed vegetables is incredibly convenient, providing a colorful and nutritious blend. Peas, carrots, corn, and green beans are classic choices, but any combination you enjoy will work perfectly.
- Dorothy Lynch: Dorothy Lynch Home Style Dressing and Condiment is the star seasoning here, infusing the rice bake with its signature sweet, spicy, and tangy creaminess.
- Cheddar cheese: A mild cheddar cheese, preferably freshly shredded, melts beautifully and delivers that quintessential comforting, cheesy flavor throughout the casserole.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley, chopped, brightens the dish with a touch of herbaceous freshness and a lovely visual appeal.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, allowing you to adjust the flavors to your personal preference.
- Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top, this provides a delightful, savory crust and an extra layer of sharp, nutty cheese flavor to finish the cheesy rice bake.
Keep reading for invaluable tips and tricks, creative substitution ideas, and comprehensive answers to frequently asked questions about preparing this irresistible cheesy vegetable rice casserole.
How to Make Cheesy Vegetable Rice Casserole
Creating this flavorful rice casserole is both quick and incredibly easy, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. Here’s a step-by-step guide to bring this delicious dish to life:
First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Prepare an 11×7 inch baking dish by lightly spraying it with nonstick cooking spray. This crucial step ensures easy cleanup and prevents the cheesy rice from sticking. Set the prepared dish aside.
In a medium saucepan, combine water and one tablespoon of butter, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the rice and cook according to the package instructions. Aim for perfectly cooked, fluffy rice – not mushy, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
While the rice cooks, melt the remaining butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and dried basil. Sauté these aromatics for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, forming a flavorful base for the vegetables.
Next, add the package of frozen mixed vegetables to the pan with the aromatics. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them cooked through but still retaining a bit of their bite.
Once the rice is cooked, transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Add the Dorothy Lynch Dressing to the cooked rice, ensuring every grain is coated with its unique sweet and spicy flavor.
Then, gently fold in the fresh parsley, season generously with salt and pepper to taste, and finally, add the shredded cheddar cheese. Give everything a thorough but gentle mix until the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the rice mixture. The warmth of the rice will start to melt the cheese, creating gooey pockets of flavor.
Now, combine the seasoned rice mixture with the sautéed vegetables in the pan. Stir everything together until well incorporated, ensuring that every spoonful will contain a delicious blend of rice, veggies, and cheesy goodness.
Carefully pour the combined rice and vegetable mixture into your prepared 11×7 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Finish by sprinkling the top generously with the Parmesan cheese. This will create a beautiful golden crust as it bakes.
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Then, remove the cover and continue to bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and bubbly. This final uncovered baking step ensures that irresistible cheesy crust. Serve your Dorothy’s Cheesy Vegetable Rice Bake piping hot and enjoy!
Should you have any delightful leftovers of this rice casserole, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping throughout the week.
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If this delicious cheesy vegetable rice bake has captured your attention, don’t let this recipe slip away! Be sure to pin it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board before you navigate away. It’s the perfect way to save it for future meal planning and share it with friends!
FAQs About Cheesy Vegetable Rice
Curious about this delightful cheesy rice dish? Here are some commonly asked questions to help you master this recipe and personalize it to your liking.
- Does cheese go well with rice? Absolutely, cheese and rice are a match made in culinary heaven! The creamy texture of melted cheese combined with the starchy grains of rice creates a comforting and satisfying base that can be savory or even slightly sweet. Cheese adds a depth of flavor and a wonderful gooeyness that transforms simple rice into a rich, indulgent dish.
- What culture is cheesy rice popular in? While comfort food dishes featuring cheese and rice exist globally, combinations similar to cheesy rice have deep roots in various culinary traditions. You can find variations of cheesy rice popular in Asian and West African countries, often incorporating local cheeses or creamy sauces. In America, rice and cheese casseroles are beloved comfort food staples, especially in the Midwest and Southern regions.
- How do you make rice taste more interesting? There are myriad ways to elevate plain rice. You can infuse it with flavor by cooking it in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water, adding a pat of butter, sautéing aromatics like garlic and onion, or stirring in fresh herbs and spices. Incorporating vegetables, a variety of cheeses, a dash of soy sauce, or a unique dressing like Dorothy Lynch can transform basic rice into a star dish.
- How to infuse rice with flavor? Beyond cooking it in broth, you can infuse rice with flavor by blooming spices in oil before adding the rice, stirring in citrus zest, adding a bay leaf or fresh thyme sprigs during cooking, or mixing in toasted nuts or dried fruits for textural and flavor contrast. Sauces and dressings, such as our featured Dorothy Lynch, are also excellent for a quick flavor boost.
- Can I prepare cheesy vegetable rice ahead of time? Yes! This casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can assemble the entire casserole (up to the point of baking) and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
- What kind of frozen vegetables work best? The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility! A classic mixed vegetable blend (peas, carrots, corn, green beans) works perfectly. However, feel free to use your favorite frozen vegetables, such as broccoli florets, chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even cauliflower. Ensure they are small enough to cook through evenly.
Substitutions for Your Cheesy Rice Bake
Remember, when it comes to customizing recipes, don’t hesitate to embrace your creativity and select ingredients that best align with your personal taste preferences and dietary needs. Make this cheesy vegetable rice truly your own!
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap the mixed frozen vegetables for any type of vegetable you have on hand. Both fresh or frozen options will work wonderfully. For a specific twist, use fresh or frozen broccoli florets for a delicious cheesy broccoli rice, or thinly sliced zucchini for a flavorful cheesy zucchini rice. Consider seasonal vegetables like asparagus in spring or butternut squash in fall for unique variations.
- Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses to alter the flavor profile. Instead of mild cheddar, try a sharp cheddar for a more intense cheese flavor, Monterey Jack for extra creaminess, Gruyère for a nutty depth, or Colby for a smooth, mild taste. Any good melting hard cheese will work. For the topping, in place of Parmesan, consider sprinkling with crumbled goat cheese for tang, feta for a salty kick, or even Grana Padano for a similar but slightly sweeter profile.
- Flavor Boosters: For an extra layer of flavor, mix in your favorite fresh or dried herbs such beyond basil and parsley, such as thyme, oregano, or a pinch of rosemary. A dash of garlic powder or onion powder can also amplify the savory notes, especially if you’re short on fresh aromatics. A pinch of smoked paprika can add a subtle smoky depth.
- Rice Type: While long-grain white rice is ideal for its fluffy texture, you can certainly use a different rice if you prefer. Basmati or jasmine rice will offer a more aromatic experience, while minute rice will significantly cut down on preparation time. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to package directions.
- Butter alternatives: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter alternative or simply use olive oil to sauté the vegetables.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Cheesy Vegetable Rice
Elevate your cheesy vegetable rice casserole with these clever tips and tricks, ensuring a perfect result every time.
- Use leftover rice: This recipe is an excellent way to repurpose leftover rice from a previous meal. Using cold, day-old rice helps prevent the casserole from becoming overly mushy, resulting in a better texture. It’s also a fantastic way to minimize food waste.
- Cook rice in broth: For an even richer flavor base, cook the rice in chicken broth or vegetable broth instead of water. This simple swap adds significant depth and savory notes to the entire dish. If keeping the dish vegetarian, vegetable broth is the perfect choice.
- Add a dollop of sour cream: For a delightful contrast in flavor and an extra layer of creaminess, consider serving your cheesy rice topped with a spoonful of sour cream or Greek yogurt. The cool tang beautifully complements the rich, savory cheese.
- Utilize a rice cooker: If you have a rice cooker, absolutely pull it out to cook the rice. It ensures perfectly fluffy rice with minimal effort, allowing you to focus on preparing the vegetables and cheese sauce.
- Lower the carbs: To significantly reduce the carbohydrate content of this dish, replace half of the traditional rice with cooked cauliflower rice. This substitution is a great way to sneak in extra vegetables and cater to low-carb preferences without sacrificing flavor.
- Grate your own cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and often has a richer flavor because it lacks the anti-caking agents found in packaged varieties.
- Don’t overmix: Once the cooked rice, vegetables, dressing, and cheeses are combined, mix just enough to evenly distribute the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a gummy texture, especially with the rice.
- Let it rest: After baking, allow the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheeses to set slightly and the flavors to meld, making it easier to serve and enhancing the overall experience.
What Is Dorothy Lynch?
For those unfamiliar with this culinary gem, “The” Dorothy Lynch was a remarkable woman who, in the 1940s, created this now-famous dressing. She first served it at a restaurant she and her husband operated at the local Legion Club in St. Paul, Nebraska. Her dressing quickly became a sensation, so much so that eager patrons would bring their own empty bottles to have Dorothy generously fill them, allowing them to enjoy its unique flavor in their homes.
Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment is best described as a sweet and spicy dressing with a distinctly thick and creamy texture. Due to its vibrant reddish-orange hue, many people mistakenly assume it’s simply another French dressing. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Dorothy Lynch tastes nothing like French dressing; while French dressing is typically oil-based, Dorothy Lynch is a unique, delicious tomato-based dressing. This fundamental difference gives it a richer, more complex flavor profile that sets it apart and makes it incredibly versatile for both salads and cooking.
More Dorothy Lynch Recipes to Love
If you’ve become a fan of Dorothy Lynch’s distinctive flavor, you’ll be delighted to explore more recipes that showcase its culinary magic. You might particularly enjoy this incredibly tender Crock Pot Pulled Pork with Dorothy Lynch Coleslaw, where the dressing adds a sweet and tangy kick to both the pork and the refreshing coleslaw. Or, elevate your weeknight dinner with these vibrant Taco Salads with Dorothy Lynch Taco Sauce, adding an unexpected but delicious twist to a classic. I’ve also incorporated this favorite condiment into savory breakfast and appetizer dishes like this hearty Bacon and Potato Frittata and the incredibly popular Hot Taco Dip. Each recipe highlights the versatility and unique taste that Dorothy Lynch brings to the table.
Discover ALL of my recipes that feature the famousDorothy Lynch Salad Dressing and explore a world of flavor!
Where Can I Get a Bottle of Dorothy Lynch?
If you’re eager to experience the unique flavor of Dorothy Lynch for yourself, you’re in luck! Dorothy Lynch Dressing & Condiment is widely available at most grocery stores across Nebraska, its home state. You can also find it at select grocery retailers west of the Mississippi River, including major chains like Walmart and Hy-Vee. If you’re having trouble locating it in your local store, don’t despair! You can easily stock your pantry with this beloved dressing by shopping online through Buy Nebraska, which ships directly to your door.
To stay updated on new and delicious recipes featuring this fantastic dressing, make sure to follow Dorothy Lynch on their official website, as well as their engaging Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook, and Twitter accounts throughout the year. You’ll find a wealth of inspiration for incorporating this versatile condiment into your everyday cooking.
With just a few simple ingredients and the distinctive touch of Dorothy Lynch, you can easily whip up this fantastic cheesy vegetable rice bake. It’s a great side dish that pairs wonderfully with any main course, or it can stand proudly as a satisfying meal on its own. Enjoy the comforting flavors and effortless preparation!
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Print Recipe
Dorothy’s Cheesy Vegetable Rice Bake
Equipment
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Lodge 3.6 Quart Enamel Cast Iron Casserole Dish with Lid (Carribbean Blue)
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Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Nonstick 1-Quart Saucepan with Lid
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Buy Dorothy Lynch
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 Tablespoons butter divided
- 1 small onion chopped about ⅔ cup
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dry basil
- 1 12 ounce package frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup Dorothy Lynch
- 1 ½ cup mild cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 Tablespoon fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese shredded
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray an 11×7 casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
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In a saucepan over medium-high heat, bring rice, water, and Tablespoon of butter to a boil. Cook rice according to the package instructions.
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In another pan, melt butter. Add in garlic, onion, and basil, and cook for about 5 minutes. Add in the frozen vegetables and cook for another 5 minutes.
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Add the rice to the vegetables, Stir in Dorothy Lynch and Cheddar Cheese. Pour into the prepared 11×7 casserole dish. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
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Cover and bake for 25 minutes, remove the cover and bake for 5 minutes more. Serve hot.