Easy Cheesy Oven-Baked Rice Casserole: A Sustainable Leftover Hack

This cheesy oven-baked rice casserole is not only incredibly flavorful and satisfying, but it’s also a sustainable way to fight food waste. It’s the perfect “clean-the-fridge” meal that transforms leftover rice and whatever ingredients you have on hand into a brand-new dinner. We used what we had in our kitchen, but feel free to get creative with your own favorites. Just follow the base recipe below, and you’re good to go!

Ingredients for Cheesy Oven-Baked Rice:

• 3 cups cooked rice (seasoned leftover rice works perfectly);
• 1 ¼ cups milk;
• ½ onion, finely diced;
• 2 tablespoons butter;
• 4 tablespoons cream cheese (or Mexican crema);
• 6 slices mozzarella cheese;
• 3 slices smoked turkey breast (or deli ham);
• Salt and black pepper to taste;
• Dried oregano to taste;
• Olives (pitted), to taste;
• Fresh scallions, chopped, for garnish.

How to Make Oven-Baked Rice Casserole:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Sauté the diced onion until translucent, then add the milk.
3. Whisk in the cream cheese until smooth and well combined; let it cook over medium heat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, then remove from heat.
6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
7. In a small baking dish, spread half of the rice to form an even bottom layer.
8. Pour a layer of the cream cheese sauce over the rice.
9. Arrange 3 slices of mozzarella and 3 slices of smoked turkey on top.
10. Add another layer of sauce, then the remaining rice.
11. Top with the remaining mozzarella slices.
12. Add extra dollops of cream cheese on top if you’d like it extra creamy.
13. Top with olives and sprinkle with oregano.
14. Bake for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. For a golden finish, broil for the last 2 minutes. Garnish with chopped scallions before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips:

Feel free to swap fillings! Use leftover roasted meats, sautéed vegetables, or different deli meats. You can also easily double this recipe for a larger crowd. The goal is to reduce food waste by repurposing what you already have in your fridge. It’s a simple way to turn leftovers into a delicious, complete meal.

Did you enjoy this recipe? Share it with a friend! We have plenty more easy lunch ideas on our blog.