Cheesy Vegetable and Wild Rice Casserole

• 1 1/2 cups wild rice, uncooked
• 4 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn), fresh or frozen
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Steps

1. 1 Rinse wild rice and cook according to package instructions using 4 cups water.
2. 2 Preheat oven to 375°F.
3. 3 Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. 4 Add mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook until tender.
5. 5 In a saucepan, whisk milk and flour together. Cook over medium heat until thickened.
6. 6 Stir in paprika, black pepper, and salt into the milk mixture.
7. 7 Combine cooked wild rice, sautéed vegetables, and 1 1/2 cups of cheese in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
8. 8 Pour the milk mixture over the rice and vegetable mixture.
9. 9 Top with remaining cheese and breadcrumbs, if using.
10. 10 Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
11. 11 Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Equipment

• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Whisk

Variations

• Add cooked chicken or turkey for a heartier option.
• Swap cheddar for a mix of Swiss and mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Substitutions

• Use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the rice for added flavor.
• Substitute almond milk for a dairy-free option.

Pairings

• Crisp green salad
• Warm garlic bread

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra flavor, toast the breadcrumbs with a bit of olive oil before sprinkling on top.
• Feel free to use your favorite mix of vegetables.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake covered at 350°F for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad or warm garlic bread for a complete meal.

FAQ