mexican cheese rice recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
mexican cheese rice recipe
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The Best mexican cheese rice recipe

I’m so excited to share this Mexican Cheese Rice recipe with you all. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it’s a crowd-pleaser for sure.

The combination of creamy cheese, savory rice, and spices is a match made in heaven. My family and I just love this recipe, and I’m confident you will too.

It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to other cheesy rice dishes out there.

The key to making this recipe is using the right type of cheese – I recommend a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for the best flavor. And don’t even get me started on the importance of using fresh cilantro – it makes all the difference in the world.

Mexican Cheese Rice

Mexican Cheese Rice

4.6 from 1152 votes

Mexican Cheese Rice is a creamy, flavorful side dish packed with cheese and spices. It’s perfect for pairing with tacos, enchiladas, or any Mexican main course.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time50 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 cups long grain white rice
4 cups water
4 cups Mexican blend shredded cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2This step helps to remove excess starch and improves the texture of the cooked rice.
3Drain well and set aside.
4In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil over high heat.
5Once boiling, add the rinsed rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
6After 15 minutes, remove from heat and let it rest, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
7This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
8Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
9While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
10Add the chopped onion, garlic, and jalapeño.
11Sauté for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
12Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can become bitter.
13Add the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet.
14Stir well to combine with the onion mixture.
15Cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
16Gradually add the shredded cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously to melt the cheese and create a smooth sauce.
17If the mixture becomes too thick, add a small amount of water to reach your desired consistency.
18Once the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, remove from heat.
19Add the cooked rice to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine.
20Ensure the rice is evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
21If the mixture is too thick, add a small amount of water to reach your desired consistency.
22Cook over low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through and the flavors are well combined.
23Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
24Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving.
25Serve immediately while hot and enjoy with your favorite Mexican dishes.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan with lid
Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Cheese grater

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier version, leave the seeds in the jalapeño. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn to make it more hearty.

Watch Video Of How Mexican Cheese Rice Works

Mexican cheese rice is always a good idea for any occasion. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish, and it’s perfect for family gatherings. It’s a comforting and flavorful dish that your family will love. It can be easily stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

You can also serve it with a side of beans, guacamole, and salsa for a complete Mexican meal. It’s a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying, and it’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of Mexican cuisine. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy family dinner. The versatility of the recipe makes it a great option for any meal or occasion, and it’s a dish that everyone will enjoy. My family loves it because it’s easy to make and can be served for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a festive gathering.

It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that combines the richness of Mexican cuisine with the simplicity of a home-cooked meal. It’s a dish that’s both flavorful and comforting, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings. The key to making this dish is to use the right type of rice and to cook it properly. Mexican cheese rice is typically made with long-grain white rice, which has a slightly firmer texture and can better absorb the flavors of the spices and cheese. Cooking the rice correctly ensures that it is fluffy and not mushy, which is crucial for the final texture of the dish.

It’s a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying, and it’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of Mexican cuisine. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy family dinner.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mexican Cheese Rice

1. What type of rice should I use for Mexican cheese rice?

I recommend using long-grain white rice for this recipe. It has a slightly firmer texture and can better absorb the flavors of the spices and cheese.

2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will change the texture and cooking time of the dish. Brown rice is chewier and takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the cooking instructions accordingly.

3. What kind of cheese should I use?

You can use any type of cheese that you prefer. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Mexican cheese blends all work well in this recipe. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to find your favorite combination.

4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian. If you want to add more protein, you can include beans or cooked vegetables.

5. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave individual portions or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

6. Can I freeze Mexican cheese rice?

Yes, you can freeze Mexican cheese rice. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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