Cheesy Spinach Rice Bake

I am trying to feature more side dish and vegetarian dishes here. This recipe can serve as both.

Serve as a side dish to accompany healthy grilled chicken or as its own vegetarian dish. You can definitely play around with the cheeses you use...try pizza blend, Mexican blend or any other cheese your family likes. And what could get kids to eat their spinach like lacing it with various cheeses?

Cheesy Spinach Rice Bake


1 (10 oz.) package frozen spinach (thawed then hand squeezed dry to remove excess moisture)
2 cups cooked white rice or brown rice (use cold rice for this)
1/3 cup melted butter
2 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup finely minced onion
1-2 teaspoon fresh minced garlic
3 large eggs, beaten
3/4 cup milk
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
1 tsp. salt

1 cup grated cheddar or mozzarella cheese, for topping


To Prepare
- Generously grease a 11 x 7-inch disposable baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients with a wooden spoon, mixing very well to combine.
- Season with salt, pepper and cayenne to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

To Freeze
- Warp tightly in plastic wrap and then cover in foil.

To Serve
- thaw over night in refrigerator
- remove wrapping and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or until hot.
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