18 Italian Baked Rice Recipe Get Cooking And Enjoy!
Published on: Mar 15, 2024
In addition to being a staple in Italian cuisine, rice is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. One delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion is Italian baked rice. This flavorful and hearty dish is easy to make and is sure to impress your family and friends.
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this mouth-watering Italian Chicken and Rice Casserole. Tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs are layered with creamy rice for the ultimate comfort food. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers for days to come.
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Italian-Style Stuffed Peppers
Main Ingredients: Red Bell Peppers, Yellow Onions, Ground Meat, Eggs
Stuffed peppers are a classic Italian dish, and for good reason. These Italian-Style Stuffed Peppers are bursting with flavor and are a great way to use up any leftover rice or vegetables. Simply stuff bell peppers with a mixture of rice, ground beef, herbs, and marinara sauce, and bake until tender and delicious.
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Baked Rice
Main Ingredients: Rice, Butter, Chopped Onion, Chicken Broth, Salt
This Baked Rice recipe is a staple in many Italian households. It's a simple and delicious side dish that pairs well with just about any main course. The rice is cooked in a flavorful broth and topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a touch of creaminess.
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Italian Baked Rice Casserole (Riso al Forno)
Main Ingredients: Arborio Rice, Olive Oil, Onion, Garlic, Ground Beef
This Italian Baked Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting meal that will transport you straight to the Italian countryside. Made with layers of rice, sausage, and a rich tomato sauce, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.
If you're looking for a cozy and hearty meal, look no further than this Italian Tortellini Soup. Tender tortellini, juicy tomatoes, and fresh herbs are simmered together in a flavorful broth for a soup that is both comforting and delicious.
If you're tired of the same old chicken dishes, give this Baked Italian Chicken a try. The chicken is marinated in a blend of Italian seasonings and then baked until crispy and tender. Serve with a side of rice or pasta for a complete meal.
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Italian Baked Stuffed Tomatoes With Rice
Main Ingredients: Tomatoes, Rice, Oregano, Basil, Salt, Italian Parsley
Elevate your side dish game with these Italian Baked Stuffed Tomatoes with Rice. These juicy tomatoes are stuffed with a delicious mixture of rice, herbs, and Italian sausage before being baked to perfection. They make a beautiful addition to any meal.
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Italian Sausage and Asparagus Risotto
Main Ingredients: Italian Sausage, Onion, Garlic, Butter, Rice
This Italian Sausage and Asparagus Risotto is a one-pot wonder that is both comforting and elegant. Creamy risotto is studded with tender asparagus and savory Italian sausage for a dish that is sure to impress.
Main Ingredients: Butter, Zucchini, Rice, Cream Cheese, Sun Dried Tomato
Arancini, or Italian rice balls, are a popular street food in Italy. This Baked Pesto Zucchini Arancini recipe puts a twist on the traditional dish by adding zucchini and pesto for a burst of flavor and texture. Serve as an appetizer or main course for a tasty and unique meal.
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Italian Porcupine Balls
Main Ingredients: Ground Beef, Rice, Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs
These Italian Porcupine Balls get their name from the rice that pokes out of the meatballs, resembling porcupine quills. These savory meatballs are simmered in a rich tomato sauce for a classic Italian dish that is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight meal.
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Italian Baked Stuffed Tomatoes
Main Ingredients: Tomatoes, Chicken, Shredded Mozzarella, Cooked Rice
Another twist on stuffed tomatoes, these Italian Baked Stuffed Tomatoes are filled with a delicious mixture of rice, ground beef, and Italian seasonings. The tomatoes are then baked until tender and topped with a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese for a gooey and satisfying meal.
If you're a fan of stuffed peppers, you have to try this Italian Stuffed Peppers recipe. These peppers are filled with a flavorful mixture of rice, ground beef, and Italian herbs before being baked to perfection. Serve with a side of pasta for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
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Baked Italian Rice Balls
Main Ingredients: Cooked Rice, Shredded Mozzarella, Shredded Parmesan
Rice balls, or arancini, are a popular street food in Italy. These Baked Italian Rice Balls are a healthier take on the traditional fried version, but they are just as delicious. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping for a fun and tasty snack.
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Easy Italian Rice – Love Every Minute!
Main Ingredients: Rice, Tomato Sauce, Part Skim Mozzarella Cheese
This Easy Italian Rice is a staple in many Italian households. It's a simple and delicious side dish that pairs well with just about any main course. The rice is cooked in a flavorful broth and topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a touch of creaminess.
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Arancini (Italian Rice Balls)
Main Ingredients: Eggs, Cooked Rice, Mozzarella Cheese, Seasoned Bread
If you're a fan of street food, you have to try these Arancini, or Italian rice balls. These crispy and flavorful balls are filled with a delicious mixture of rice, Italian seasonings, and mozzarella cheese. Serve as an appetizer or main course for a tasty and unique meal.
These Cheesy Italian Stuffed Peppers are a delicious twist on the classic stuffed pepper dish. These peppers are filled with a creamy and flavorful mixture of rice, Italian sausage, and topped with a generous amount of mozzarella cheese. Bake until bubbly and enjoy!
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Baked Italian Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Meatballs, Marinara Sauce, Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
Meatballs are a staple in many Italian households, and for good reason. These Baked Italian Meatballs are flavorful and easy to make. Serve with a side of pasta and marinara sauce for a classic and comforting meal.
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Italian Rice Bowls
Main Ingredients: Rice, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Italian Chicken Sausage
If you're looking for a quick and easy meal that still packs a punch of flavor, these Italian Rice Bowls are for you. Simply top a bowl of rice with your choice of protein, fresh vegetables, and a sprinkle of Italian seasonings for a satisfying and nutritious meal.
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Mom's Italian Stuffed Pepper
Main Ingredients: Peppers, Boiled Eggs, Bread Crumbs, Egg, Hamburger
This Mom's Italian Stuffed Pepper recipe is a family favorite that has been passed down for generations. Juicy peppers are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, ground beef, and tomato sauce for a classic Italian dish that is sure to please.
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Old Fashioned Baked Rice Pudding
Main Ingredients: Milk, Rice, Granulated Sugar, Lemon Zest, Nutmeg
This Old Fashioned Baked Rice Pudding is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy and rich, this dessert is made with cooked rice, cinnamon, and raisins for a warm and delicious treat. Serve with a sprinkle of nutmeg for a touch of holiday flavor.
The Perfect Blend of Flavors
Tomatoes, Basil, and Cheese
One of the key components of a delicious Italian baked rice dish is the combination of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and rich cheese. These ingredients not only add a burst of flavor but also give the dish a beautiful color. The tomatoes provide a tangy and slightly sweet taste, while the basil adds a refreshing herb flavor. The cheese, whether it be mozzarella, parmesan, or a blend of both, adds a creamy and rich element to the dish.
Garlic and Onion
Another essential element in this recipe is the use of garlic and onion. These aromatics add depth and complexity to the dish, elevating the flavors of the other ingredients. The garlic provides a subtle nutty flavor, while the onion adds a sweet and savory note. Be sure to finely mince the garlic and chop the onion finely to ensure that they are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Baked to Perfection
The Importance of Using Arborio Rice
To achieve the perfect texture for Italian baked rice, it is crucial to use Arborio rice. This type of rice is commonly used in risotto and is known for its high starch content, which gives the dish a creamy and velvety texture. Arborio rice also has a firm and chewy texture, making it ideal for baking.
Layering the Ingredients
To ensure that all the flavors are evenly distributed, it is essential to layer the ingredients in the baking dish. Start with a layer of rice, followed by the tomato and basil mixture, and then top it off with a layer of cheese. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used up, making sure to end with a layer of cheese on top. This layering technique allows for the flavors to meld together while also creating a beautiful presentation.
Making it Your Own
Adding Meat or Vegetables
While this Italian baked rice recipe is delicious on its own, you can also customize it by adding your favorite meats or vegetables. Sliced Italian sausage, ground beef, or chicken can be added to the dish for a heartier meal. For a vegetarian option, you can add roasted vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers. Get creative and make it your own!
Experimenting with Different Cheeses
While mozzarella and parmesan are traditional cheeses used in this dish, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to add a unique twist to the recipe. Gouda, fontina, or even feta can add a delicious and unexpected flavor to the dish. Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well for the best results.
Now that you know the key ingredients and techniques for making a delicious Italian baked rice dish, it's time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. This simple and flavorful recipe is sure to become a family favorite and will have everyone asking for seconds. Buon appetito!
