Baked Rice Recipe Vegetarian: Easy and Delicious Ideas

Baked rice is a comforting and versatile dish that can be customized to suit every palate, especially for those following a vegetarian lifestyle. This baked rice recipe is a wholesome medley of fluffy rice, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices, all cooked together to create a satisfying one-pot meal.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something hearty without too much fuss. The best part is that the oven does most of the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the top layer to develop a deliciously golden crust.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this baked rice recipe is simple, nutritious, and utterly delicious. It also makes for fantastic leftovers, so you can enjoy the goodness even the next day.

Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in extra veggies for the whole family. Get ready to dive into a cozy dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian baked rice recipe is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, combining staple pantry ingredients with fresh produce.

You get the perfect balance of creamy, fluffy rice with a slightly crispy top layer from baking. The vegetables add vibrant color and nutrition, making it a complete meal in itself.

It’s also highly adaptable—swap in your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste. This dish is naturally gluten-free and can be made vegan by using plant-based butter or oil.

Plus, baking the rice frees up your stovetop, making it ideal for cooking multiple dishes at once or entertaining guests.

And if you love recipes that deliver on flavor, comfort, and convenience, this vegetarian baked rice will become a staple in your recipe collection!

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup chopped zucchini
• 1 cup chopped mushrooms
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese or vegan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Oven-safe baking dish (around 9×13 inches)
• Large skillet for sautéing vegetables
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
4. Add the garlic, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their flavors.
5. Stir in the smoked paprika, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the vegetables evenly with the spices.
6. Remove the skillet from heat. Add the rinsed rice to the sautéed vegetables and gently mix to combine everything.
7. Transfer the rice and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Pour the vegetable broth evenly over the rice. Do not stir after adding the broth.
8. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam, which helps the rice cook evenly.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes. After 35 minutes, remove the foil carefully and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top, if using.
10. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.
11. Remove from the oven and gently fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the fresh spinach so it wilts slightly from the residual heat.
12. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked rice hot!

Tips & Variations

“For extra flavor, try adding a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast before baking.”

Feel free to customize this baked rice by swapping vegetables based on what you have on hand. Carrots, peas, sweet corn, or even cauliflower florets work wonderfully.

For a protein boost, toss in cooked chickpeas or black beans before baking.

If you prefer a vegan version, omit the cheese or use your favorite plant-based cheese alternative. You can also experiment with different spices like curry powder or Italian seasoning to change up the flavor profile.

To save time, use pre-cooked or leftover rice, but reduce the baking time accordingly to prevent drying out the dish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This baked rice dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. You can also serve it alongside warm, crusty bread like the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe for an extra comforting touch.

For a heartier option, top the rice with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of tahini sauce. To add a refreshing contrast, try serving it with a light cucumber and tomato salad or a simple lemon vinaigrette.

Conclusion

This vegetarian baked rice recipe is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort. Its blend of fresh vegetables, fragrant spices, and perfectly cooked rice makes it a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, the ease of preparation and the wholesome ingredients ensure both satisfaction and health benefits.

Don’t forget, you can always customize this dish to your liking by adding your favorite veggies or spices. For more delightful recipes to complement your meal, check out our Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe or satisfy your sweet tooth with the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

Happy cooking!

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