Potato and Rice Casserole

1 medium potato, peeled and diced 1/2 cup cooked rice 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice) 1/4 cup milk 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon onion powder Salt and pepper to taste 1 tablespoon olive oil

Ingredient substitutions

• Milk: An equal amount of unsweetened, unflavored oat milk
• Olive oil: An equal amount of melted butter
• Cheddar cheese: An equal amount of shredded Monterey Jack

Nutrition per serving

Estimated values for 1 serving

Drink pairing

A crisp, unoaked white wine such as Pinot Grigio
Its fresh acidity balances the creamy potatoes, rice, and melted cheese.

Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon

This comforting casserole combines creamy potatoes and fluffy rice, baked to perfection with a cheesy topping. It's a hearty dish perfect for a satisfying meal.

Steps

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix the diced potatoes, cooked rice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add milk and half of the cheese, stirring until well combined. Grease a small baking dish with olive oil and add the potato and rice mixture. Top with the remaining cheese. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Tips for Potato and Rice Casserole

• The casserole is ready when the potato pieces yield easily to a fork and the cheese topping has golden spots.
• Use small, evenly sized potato cubes so they soften within the stated baking time.
• A small baking dish helps keep the mixture thick; a wide dish can make it dry out sooner.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours in a covered container and use within 3–4 days. Reheat until steaming hot.

Frequently asked questions

Can I assemble the casserole ahead of time?

For the best texture, bake it soon after assembling; cut potatoes can discolor and the rice may absorb more of the milk while waiting.

How can I tell when the potatoes are done?

Pierce a few pieces with a fork; they should be tender throughout, not firm or crunchy.

Why did my casserole turn out dry?

A dish that is too wide or baking longer than needed can dry it out. Check the potato tenderness near the end of the covered baking time.