Best Vegetarian Rice Casserole Recipe for Easy Dinners

Looking for a hearty, flavorful, and wholesome meal that’s entirely vegetarian? This best vegetarian rice casserole recipe is your new go-to comfort food!

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this casserole combines tender rice, fresh vegetables, and rich cheeses into a deliciously creamy dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a make-ahead meal for gatherings. Plus, it’s versatile enough to accommodate your favorite veggies and seasonings.

With layers of perfectly cooked rice, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach, all bound together with a creamy, cheesy sauce, this casserole bakes up golden and bubbly. The best part?

It’s naturally meatless but still packed with protein and flavor, making it a winner for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Dive into this recipe and discover a new family favorite that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian rice casserole stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make — just one dish to assemble and bake, which means less cleanup and more time to relax.

The combination of rice and vegetables offers a balanced meal with a wonderful texture contrast: soft rice, tender veggies, and a crispy cheese topping.

It’s also very customizable. You can swap out vegetables depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

The creamy sauce is rich without being heavy, making every bite comforting but not overwhelming. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep.

Finally, this casserole is a great way to sneak more vegetables into your diet in a way that everyone will enjoy. If you love dishes like baked mac and cheese but want something a bit healthier and vegetarian-friendly, this is the recipe for you!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 3 cups vegetable broth (for cooking rice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 ½ cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large saucepan or pot (for cooking rice)
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Oven-safe casserole dish (about 9×13 inches)
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Grater (for cheese)

Instructions

1. Cook the rice: In a large saucepan, bring the 3 cups of vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
2. Sauté the vegetables: While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and bell pepper: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and diced red bell pepper. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 6-7 minutes.
4. Incorporate spinach and peas: Add the chopped spinach and thawed peas to the skillet. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2-3 minutes. Season with thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and remove from heat.
5. Prepare the cheese sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine all components: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, and cheese sauce. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
7. Assemble the casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the rice mixture into the greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan evenly over the top.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For a nuttier flavor, try swapping white rice with brown rice or wild rice blend. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.”

Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, carrots, or broccoli work wonderfully.

If you’d like to add a bit of protein, consider stirring in some cooked lentils or chickpeas.

For a vegan version, substitute the cheddar and Parmesan with your favorite vegan cheeses, and use plant-based milk with vegan butter or olive oil for the sauce.

Want a crispier top? Add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs mixed with a little olive oil before baking.

If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce or vegetables for a subtle kick.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian rice casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a simple cucumber and tomato salad for a refreshing contrast. You can also serve it alongside a warm loaf of crusty bread or garlic bread for a fulfilling meal.

For a cozy dinner, consider serving with a bowl of homemade soup like a classic Clam Chowder San Francisco Recipe or a light vegetable broth.

Looking for a sweet finish? Try a delightful dessert like the creamy and spiced Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe or the rich Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe to round out your meal perfectly.

Conclusion

This best vegetarian rice casserole recipe is a wonderful addition to any home cook’s repertoire. It’s comforting, easy to prepare, and packed with wholesome ingredients that nourish both body and soul.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more meatless meals to your week, this casserole is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests.

With its creamy cheese sauce and vibrant vegetables, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nutrition. Plus, the ability to customize it means you can always make it your own.

Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe for your next cozy dinner night or potluck event.

For more delicious and easy recipes, check out other favorites like Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or the savory Cheese Penny Recipe. Happy cooking!

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