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Creamy Artichoke and Spinach Rice Bake

creamy artichoke and spinach rice bake - featured image

A comforting, cheesy casserole packed with creamy rice, tangy artichokes, and earthy spinach, finished with a golden cheese crust. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy weeknights, this easy bake comes together quickly and is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati recommended)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup baby spinach, chopped (or thawed frozen spinach, squeezed dry)
  • 1 cup canned or jarred artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
  • 1/2 cup milk (dairy or dairy-free)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional, or gluten-free alternative)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, chopped spinach, and chopped artichoke hearts. Add cream cheese, sour cream, and milk. Sprinkle in thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  4. Spread the rice mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and press down gently with a spatula.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together mozzarella, parmesan, panko breadcrumbs (if using), and melted butter. Sprinkle topping evenly over the rice mixture.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbling and edges are golden brown.
  7. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to help the layers set.

Notes

Use day-old rice for best texture. Squeeze spinach dry if using frozen to avoid sogginess. For gluten-free, skip or substitute panko. Let bake rest before slicing for neat portions. Add fresh herbs or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Can be made dairy-free with plant-based substitutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: artichoke rice bake, spinach casserole, cheesy rice bake, vegetarian comfort food, easy dinner, family casserole, potluck recipe, creamy rice bake