Are you looking for a dish that brings together the heartiness of Italian flavors and the comfort of a baked casserole? Look no further! This Italian Baked Rice is the perfect fusion of creamy white sauce, vibrant veggies, and aromatic seasonings layered beautifully over fluffy basmati rice. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply craving a cozy meal, this dish is sure to impress.
Layering is key to this dish. The combination of seasoned rice, creamy white sauce, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese creates an irresistible texture and taste. Every bite is a delightful mix of cheesy, saucy, and aromatic goodness.
Ingredients:
For the Rice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (capsicum, red bell pepper, carrot, zucchini, boiled corn)
- 1.5 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tsp red chili flakes
- 1 tsp oregano
- 150g paneer (cubed or crumbled)
- 3-4 tbsp pizza/pasta sauce
- 1.5 cups cooked basmati rice
- 10-15 black olive slices
- 5-6 fresh basil leaves
For the White Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp finely chopped garlic
- 1.5 tbsp whole wheat flour
- 1.5 cups milk
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper powder
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1 cube grated cheese
For Assembly
- 2/3rd of the prepared rice mixture
- White sauce
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Olives and additional veggies for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
1. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté chopped garlic until fragrant.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for a couple of minutes.
3. Season with salt, black pepper, red chili flakes, and oregano.
4. Stir in the paneer and pizza/pasta sauce, mixing well.
5. Add the cooked rice, mix everything together, and turn off the heat.
6. Toss in olive slices and fresh basil leaves. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the White Sauce
1. In a separate pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic.
2. Add whole wheat flour and cook until slightly golden.
3. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Season with salt, black pepper, chili flakes, and oregano.
5. Stir in the grated cheese and cook until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
2. In a baking tray, spread 2/3rd of the prepared rice mixture as the first layer.
3. Pour the white sauce evenly over the rice.
4. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese.
5. Garnish with olives and extra veggies if desired.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for **15-18 minutes** or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve hot, straight from the oven.
- Pair with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
