Spinach & Artichoke Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Spinach & Artichoke Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender rice with flavorful spinach and artichokes. Topped with melted cheese, it’s perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying vegetarian main.

Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked rice
• 1 (10 to 12-oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 (14-oz) can artichoke hearts, finely chopped
• 1½ cups shredded parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (15-oz) container ricotta cheese
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ¾ cup milk
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese, ricotta cheese, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and well combined.
3. Step 3: Add the cooked rice, thawed and drained spinach, chopped artichoke hearts, 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese to the bowl. Mix everything thoroughly.
4. Step 4: Spoon the rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
5. Step 5: Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is golden.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of nutmeg to the cheese mixture.
• Swap out frozen spinach for fresh spinach sautéed and drained if preferred.
• Add cooked chicken or mushrooms to turn this casserole into a more substantial meal.
• Use a blend of cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for a different cheesy twist.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in a 350ºF oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Is it possible to freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked casserole covered tightly in foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

Spinach & Artichoke Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 119 reviews

A creamy and comforting Spinach & Artichoke Rice Casserole perfect for a hearty side dish or vegetarian main meal. This baked casserole combines tender rice with flavorful spinach, artichoke hearts, and a blend of cheeses for a rich, cheesy delight.

• Author: Marco
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 4 cups cooked rice
• 1 (10 to 12-oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
• 1 (14-oz) can artichoke hearts, finely chopped
• 1½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 (15-oz) container ricotta cheese
• 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• ¾ cup milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325ºF (163ºC) and lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Cheese Base: In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, ricotta cheese, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth and well combined. This forms the creamy base of the casserole.
3. Add Main Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, thawed and drained spinach, finely chopped artichoke hearts, 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese into the cheese mixture. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Smooth the surface and then top with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses for a cheesy crust.
5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the casserole is heated through and the cheese topping is melted and slightly golden.

Notes

• Make sure to thoroughly squeeze excess water from the thawed spinach to avoid a watery casserole.
• You can substitute part of the mozzarella with cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set before serving.
• This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked just before serving.
• Use low-fat cheeses and milk for a lighter version if desired.

Keywords: spinach artichoke rice casserole, cheesy rice casserole, vegetarian casserole, baked rice dish, comfort food