Baked Veggie Rice Casserole

Name: Baked Veggie Rice Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup brown rice, uncooked; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 green bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Craft

I love creating wholesome meals that are both comforting and delicious, and this Baked Veggie Rice Casserole hits all the right notes. Packed with vibrant vegetables and the heartiness of rice, it's a dish that brings warmth to the table. I’ve experimented with various vegetables to find the perfect combination, ensuring each bite is flavorful and satisfying. Whether it's a busy weeknight dinner or a gathering with family, this casserole emerges as a favorite, satisfying both the taste buds and the soul.

Created by

Daphne Collins

Last updated on 2026-01-18T04:16:14.931Z

When I first attempted this casserole, I wanted it to be both nutritious and delicious, and I think I hit the mark! Using brown rice as a base adds fiber and depth to the dish. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach not only lend color but also boost the overall flavor profile. I suggest roasting your veggies slightly before adding them to the casserole – it enhances their natural sweetness and creates a depth of flavor that's hard to resist.

This dish can easily be modified to suit your preferences – swap in seasonal veggies or even add some protein like chickpeas or chicken if you're feeling adventurous. The best part? It can be made ahead of time and reheats beautifully, making it a lifesaver on hectic days. You’ll find it’s one of those recipes that everyone asks for again and again!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with colorful veggies for a nutritious boost.
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
Perfect for meal prep, saves time during the week.

      

Why Brown Rice?

Brown rice is the star of this Baked Veggie Rice Casserole, providing a hearty and nutty base. Unlike white rice, which is stripped of its bran and germ, brown rice retains more nutrients, fiber, and minerals, making it a healthier option. Its chewy texture adds a satisfying bite that complements the tender vegetables beautifully. Using brown rice in this recipe ensures that the casserole is filling and nutritious, perfect for a wholesome meal.

Cooking brown rice to perfection is key for this dish. Unlike white rice, it requires a longer cooking time due to its outer layer. Ensure you're using a proper ratio of liquid, in this case, vegetable broth, which enhances the rice's flavor. Monitor it closely; when cooked, the grains should be tender yet slightly chewy, absorbing the broth's savory notes while releasing a lovely aroma that fills your kitchen.

Customizing Your Casserole

One of the delightful aspects of this casserole is its versatility. You can easily swap in your favorite veggies depending on seasonality or personal preference. For a sweeter flavor profile, consider adding diced carrots or butternut squash. If you want to incorporate more greens, kale, or broccoli can serve as excellent substitutions. Just remember that firmer vegetables may require a bit more cooking time to soften don’t hesitate to sauté them slightly longer.

Considering dietary restrictions? This casserole can easily be made vegan by omitting the cheese or using a dairy-free substitute. Nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without the dairy, and it adds even more nutrition to your dish. Additionally, for a protein boost, mix in cooked beans or lentils, which pair well with the vibrant vegetables and rice.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious casserole:

Vegetable Ingredients

1 cup brown rice, uncooked
2 cups vegetable broth
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to create your casserole:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Rice

In a saucepan, combine the brown rice and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for about 30 minutes or until the rice is tender.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Add the bell peppers and zucchini, cooking until just tender. Stir in the fresh spinach, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice with the sautéed vegetable mixture. If desired, stir in the shredded cheese.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. If you wish, top with additional cheese during the last few minutes of baking.

Serve

Once baked, remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your nutritious casserole!

Enjoy this casserole warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

Consider adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.

Make-Ahead Tips

This casserole is excellent for meal prep! You can assemble it ahead of time, covering it tightly with foil and storing it in the fridge for up to two days. This not only saves time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld and deepen. If you're planning to freeze it, I recommend undercooking the rice slightly during the initial cooking phase, allowing it to finish cooking during reheating later.

When you’re ready to bake, simply pull it from the fridge or freezer, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, and then follow the baking instructions. For frozen casseroles, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through, checking it periodically. Look for golden edges and bubbling around the sides as your cue that it’s done.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing this casserole with a simple side salad or crusty bread. A light vinaigrette salad can balance the richness of the baked cheese if you choose to include it. Additionally, top the casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Serving it warm as a standalone meal is also satisfying, but adding a dollop of Greek yogurt or a splash of hot sauce can bring an exciting twist. This makes for a delightful contrast to the warm, cheesy, and savory casserole, enhancing every bite. Don't hesitate to experiment with different toppings or sides to make the dish your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time as white rice cooks faster.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

→ Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble it up to a day ahead, then bake it just before serving.

→ What other veggies can I add?

Feel free to add any seasonal vegetables you like such as broccoli, carrots, or cauliflower.