Discover the delightful fusion of flavors and nutrition with our Kale and Brown Rice Casserole! This mouthwatering dish combines the wholesome goodness of kale and the hearty texture of brown rice, all enveloped in creamy ricotta and savory Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a standout side dish at your next gathering, this casserole is not just good for you—it's downright delicious! With just a bit of prep time and a simple baking process, you’ll have a nutritious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 4 cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- If not already prepared, cook brown rice according to package instructions. Typically, this involves combining 1 cup of brown rice with 2 cups of water, bringing to a boil, then reducing heat and simmering covered for about 45 minutes until water is absorbed.
- Thoroughly wash the kale and remove tough stems. Chop the kale leaves into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, chopped kale, ricotta cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, vegetable broth, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top to create a golden, crispy layer.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning and place in the preheated oven.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes. Remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes to allow the top to become golden and slightly crisp.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to portion.
- Serve hot as a nutritious main dish or side, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the brown rice and chop the kale a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to assemble the casserole.
- Customize Your Greens: While kale is packed with nutrients, feel free to substitute it with other greens like spinach or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
- Add Protein: For an extra protein boost, consider mixing in cooked chicken, turkey, or beans. This will make the casserole even heartier and more satisfying.
- Experiment with Cheese: If you're a cheese lover, try adding a blend of your favorites! Mozzarella or feta can add a unique twist to the dish.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the casserole to rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors.
- Garnish for Flair: Elevate your presentation by garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. It adds a pop of color and freshness!
- Make it Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can easily make it vegan by substituting the ricotta and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and satisfying Kale and Brown Rice Casserole that everyone will love!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
