Tasty Pepper Jack Rice

This Pepper Jack Rice Bake turns basic items into a warm, cheese-packed side that goes well with just about any main dish. The mix of spicy Pepper Jack and creamy cheddar makes a super gooey texture that turns plain rice into something you'll crave again and again.

I now make this rice bake whenever friends come over for dinner. I stumbled across it while looking for an easy but impressive side that wouldn't steal the show from the main dish but would still have everyone asking me how I made it.

What You'll Need

• 2 cups cooked white rice: Great base that soaks up all the cheesy goodness. Try using leftover rice for better results.
• 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese: Adds a gentle kick that makes this dish special. Grab a block and grate it yourself for smoother melting.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings that classic cheese richness. Go for sharp cheddar to get the best flavor mix.
• 1 cup sour cream: Gives creaminess and a tangy taste. Stick with full-fat for the richest results.

How To Make It

Get Oven Ready:

First, turn your oven to 350°F. This temp helps the cheese melt just right without burning and gives everything time to blend together. Wait until it's fully heated before you put in your dish.

Mix Everything:

Grab a big bowl and put your cooked rice in first. Make sure it's not too hot if you just made it. Dump in both kinds of cheese and the sour cream. Mix it all up until every bit of rice is covered in the dairy mix. It should look creamy but not too runny.

Get Your Dish Ready:

Find a 2-quart baking dish and rub it with butter or spray. This keeps things from sticking and adds a bit of flavor. Dump your rice mix into the dish and spread it out flat with a spatula. Making it even helps it cook the same all over.

Cook It Up:

Put your dish on the middle shelf of your hot oven. Let it bake for 25-30 minutes until you can see the edges turning golden and cheese bubbling all through it. You want some light golden spots on top for the best taste.

Time to Eat:

Take it out carefully since the dish will be super hot. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before you dig in. This rest time helps it set up a bit and makes it easier to serve.

Pin it

The Pepper Jack cheese really makes this dish stand out from any regular rice casserole. My husband usually skips rice dishes but always wants more when I cook this one. There's something about that mild heat from the Pepper Jack mixed with the creamy texture that keeps everyone wanting another helping.

Personalize It

You can easily change up this rice bake with whatever's in your kitchen. Try throwing in some chopped bell peppers, green chiles, or jalapeños for extra spice and color. Adding cooked ground beef or shredded rotisserie chicken turns this side into a full meal. If you don't eat meat, black beans and corn make a great Southwestern version. No matter what you add, it'll still keep that amazing creamy texture.

Pin it

Pair It With

This Pepper Jack Rice Bake works with so many main dishes. Serve it next to grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops for a filling dinner. For a Tex-Mex night, put it alongside enchiladas or tacos. It's great with barbecued meats at summer get-togethers. If you want a meat-free meal, just add a simple green salad and some crusty bread and you're good to go.

Keep It Fresh

This dish warms up really well, so it's perfect for planning meals ahead. Keep any leftovers in a closed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you want to warm it up, cover it with foil and heat in a 325°F oven until it's hot all the way through, about 15-20 minutes. You can use the microwave for single servings, but the oven keeps the texture better. It actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to mix together.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can brown rice replace white rice?

Definitely! Swap in cooked brown rice for white rice, just make sure it’s fully prepped before combining everything.

→ What can I use instead of Pepper Jack cheese?

Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or any mild cheese with a spicy touch will work as a great substitute.

→ Can I toss in extra veggies?

Go for it! Bell peppers, onions, or diced jalapeños are tasty options to enhance texture and flavor.

→ Is this good for prepping ahead?

Yes! Assemble the dish without baking, cover it, and pop it in the fridge for up to a day. Bake fresh when you’re ready to eat.

→ What pairs well with this rice?

This cheesy bake is perfect alongside grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or a simple green salad to balance out the meal.