Sweet Potato and Brown Rice Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This Sweet Potato Brown Rice Casserole is a comforting and nutritious dish perfect for any meal. Combining hearty brown rice with naturally sweet sweet potatoes and melted cheese, it’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix the cooked brown rice, diced sweet potatoes, and shredded cheese until well combined.
- Step 2: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or smoked paprika to the mixture before baking.
- Use different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda to change the flavor profile.
- Cook the brown rice in vegetable or chicken broth for added richness.
- Add sautéed onions or garlic to enhance the savory depth of the casserole.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, white rice can be used, but the texture and nutritional value will be different. White rice cooks faster and is softer, which may affect the casserole’s consistency.
Do I need to cook the sweet potatoes before baking?
No, dicing the sweet potatoes small enough allows them to cook fully in the casserole while baking. However, par-cooking them can reduce overall baking time.
PrintSweet Potato and Brown Rice Casserole Recipe
This Sweet Potato Brown Rice Casserole combines the wholesome, nutty flavor of brown rice with the natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes, topped with melted cheese for a comforting and nutritious meal ideal for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup brown rice, rinsed
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Brown Rice: Rinse the brown rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then combine it with 2 cups of water or broth and 1 teaspoon of salt in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 40-45 minutes until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
- Cook the Sweet Potatoes: While the rice cooks, peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small cubes. You can steam or boil them until they are tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice and sweet potatoes. Add black pepper and olive oil or butter if using. Mix gently until fully incorporated.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the rice and sweet potato mixture into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through and set.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a hearty side dish or light main course.
Notes
- Use vegetable broth for added flavor in place of water.
- For a vegan version, substitute cheese with vegan cheese alternatives.
- Adding herbs such as thyme or rosemary can enhance the aroma and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Keywords: Sweet Potato Casserole,Brown Rice Casserole,Vegetarian Casserole,Comfort Food,Baked Sweet Potato
