Baked Veggie Rice Bake

Name: Baked Veggie Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup zucchini, diced; 1 cup carrots, grated; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 2 eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Daily Inspiration

I love tantalizing my taste buds with the wholesome goodness of vegetables, and this Baked Veggie Rice Bake is a perfect example! The harmony of flavors and textures in this dish is simply irresistible. Packed with colorful veggies and cheesy goodness, it serves as a hearty meal on its own or a splendid side dish. I always enjoy making this recipe on weekends when I want something comforting yet healthy. Each bite brings joy and satisfaction, making it a family favorite!

Created by

Olwen Bradford

Last updated on 2026-01-15T19:37:46.226Z

This dish was born out of necessity one lazy afternoon when I rummaged through my fridge and found a plethora of veggies. The thought of wasting them was unbearable, so I whipped up this rice bake, and to my delight, it turned out fantastic! The key is to sauté the vegetables before layering them with the rice and cheese; this not only enhances their flavor but also ensures they cook evenly in the oven.

One detail I absolutely swear by when making this dish is the choice of rice. I prefer using a short-grain rice for its stickiness, which holds everything together beautifully. Plus, adding a sprinkle of herbs like thyme or oregano elevates the flavor profile, making every bite a delightful surprise!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Colorful veggies packed with nutrients
Creamy texture with a delightful cheesy crust
Versatile enough to serve as a main or a side dish

Ingredient Insights

The choice of vegetables in this Baked Veggie Rice Bake plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Bell peppers add a sweet crunch, while zucchini brings a subtle earthiness. Carrots contribute natural sweetness, and broccoli florets provide a satisfying bite. Feel free to swap out vegetables based on your taste preferences or seasonal availability; asparagus, spinach, or peas would work beautifully as well.

Using cooked rice is key to the texture of this bake. It not only binds the ingredients together but also absorbs the creamy mixture during baking, enhancing the overall flavor. If you prefer, you can use brown rice for a nuttier taste and added nutrition, but remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly — brown rice typically requires longer cooking before baking.

Baking Techniques

When mixing the ingredients, aim for a uniform texture; this ensures every bite is filled with the delicious combination of rice, vegetables, and cheese. If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash more milk to achieve a creamy consistency. Remember to use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl, ensuring nothing is left uncombined. If you overmix, though, the bake may turn out dense, so stop as soon as it's combined.

The baking time can vary depending on your oven's accuracy. Keep an eye on the dish as it cooks — you're aiming for a golden-brown top and bubbly cheese. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning. Let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes after baking; this allows the bake to set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delightful bake!

Main Ingredients

1 cup cooked rice
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup zucchini, diced
1 cup carrots, grated
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
2 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix and layer these ingredients for a delicious bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Baked Veggie Rice Bake.

Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, sauté the bell peppers, zucchini, carrots, and broccoli for about 5 minutes until they're slightly tender.

Mix Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, shredded cheese, eggs, milk, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Transfer to a Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy

Allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious bake!

Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or add cooked protein to make this dish even heartier!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This bake is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can pre-bake it until it’s set, then cool and freeze individual portions. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick meal or in the oven for a crispier result. The dish retains its flavor well, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknight dinners. I often enjoy it with a simple side salad to balance the richness.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Veggie Rice Bake can stand alone or serve as a delightful accompaniment to grilled proteins. Try pairing it with lemon-herb chicken or a light fish dish; the freshness of the proteins complements the rich, cheesy bake. For a vegetarian option, enjoy it alongside a hearty bean salad.

Garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving adds a burst of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chili flakes can enhance the flavor profile, providing an extra layer of taste. Invite your family to customize their portions with different toppings, making each serving unique!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rice?

Absolutely! Leftover rice works perfectly in this recipe.

→ Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

→ What can I serve with this bake?

This bake pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Just thaw and bake when you're ready!