Baked Veggie Rice Bake

Name: Baked Veggie Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cooked rice; 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup bell peppers, diced; 1 cup carrots, sliced; 1 cup zucchini, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon soy sauce; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup vegetable broth

Highlighted under: Oven Ideas

I often find myself craving a comforting yet healthy dish, and this Baked Veggie Rice Bake hits the spot every time. Packed with vibrant vegetables and hearty rice, it’s a satisfying meal that comes together in a snap. Whether I’m serving it as a main course or a side dish, the flavors meld beautifully in the oven, creating a delightful experience. What I love most is how versatile it is—feel free to swap vegetables based on what I have on hand. It's quick, healthy, and delicious, making it a go-to for busy weeknights!

Created by

Lorna Whitcombe

Last updated on 2026-01-15T14:22:37.327Z

When I first tried making this Baked Veggie Rice Bake, I was surprised at how simple it was to create such a flavorful dish. The combination of rice and an array of vegetables practically melts in your mouth, and after a bit of experimenting, I discovered that adding a dash of soy sauce enhanced the umami flavor beautifully. Baking allows the flavors to meld, giving the rice that satisfying crust around the edges.

One thing I’ve learned is to slightly undercook the rice before layering it in the bake. This way, as it cooks in the oven, it absorbs the delicious broth and finishes cooking perfectly without becoming mushy. Each bite is packed with nutrients and colors, making it a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Colorful and nutritious vegetables that please the palate
Creamy textures from cheese that add richness
A satisfying dish perfect for both weeknight dinners and meal prep

Vegetable Variations

One of the great aspects of the Baked Veggie Rice Bake is its adaptability to various vegetables. If you have seasonal produce or leftovers, feel free to swap in vegetables like spinach, kale, or even sweet corn. Each vegetable contributes unique nutrients and flavors, adding to the dish's vibrancy. For example, incorporating spinach can enhance the dish's iron content, while sweet corn brings a lovely sweetness that balances the flavors.

When changing up the vegetables, consider their cooking times. For instance, softer vegetables like tomatoes or mushrooms may require less sautéing time than harder vegetables such as carrots or zucchini. Always aim for a blend of textures—some firm veggies and some that soften, ensuring a delightful bite throughout the bake.

Cheese Choices

The choice of cheese can dramatically alter the flavor and texture of your Baked Veggie Rice Bake. Cheddar provides a sharp taste, while mozzarella offers a milder, creamier result. If you're open to experimenting, try adding a bit of feta for a tangy twist, or a sprinkle of Parmesan for depth. Just be mindful of the moisture content; cheeses with higher moisture can make the dish a little runnier.

If you're aiming for a dairy-free version, opt for plant-based cheeses available in most grocery stores. Nutritional yeast can also be a fantastic addition, lending a cheesy flavor while keeping the dish healthier. Whatever cheese you choose, ensure it’s evenly distributed for consistent flavor in each scoop.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Baked Veggie Rice Bake makes for a superb make-ahead meal. You can prepare the vegetable mixture and combine it with the rice and cheese to store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to cover the dish tightly to prevent it from drying out. When you're ready to bake, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time since the mixture will be cold.

For future meals, this dish freezes wonderfully. Store individual portions in airtight containers, ensuring to leave space for expansion. When reheating, it’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge and then heat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to fully warm through. You'll regain the delightful melty cheese without compromising texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients before starting your bake:

Ingredients

1 cup cooked rice
1 cup broccoli florets
1 cup bell peppers, diced
1 cup carrots, sliced
1 cup zucchini, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon olive oil
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup vegetable broth

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for a smooth preparation!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a perfect bake:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent, then add broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, soy sauce, and half of the cheese. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and pour vegetable broth over it. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving to enjoy the best flavors!

Pro Tips

For a vegan version, omit the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. You can also add some cooked beans for extra protein.

Serving Suggestions

The Baked Veggie Rice Bake is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad or steamed greens to balance the richness of the cheese and rice. A drizzle of balsamic reduction or a squeeze of fresh lemon can brighten the dish and create a nice contrast in flavors.

Alternatively, you can turn this bake into a delightful brunch dish by serving it with poached or fried eggs on top. The runny yolk combines beautifully with the cheesy vegetables, making it a filling, nutritious start to your day.

Scaling the Recipe

If you’re looking to serve a crowd or meal prep for the week, scaling this recipe is simple. Increase the quantities by half or double them, depending on your needs. Just make sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the additional ingredients. Keep an eye on the baking time; larger quantities may require an extra 5-10 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and the cheese is nicely melted.

For smaller portions, feel free to halve the recipe. Adjusting the ingredients is straightforward, but be sure to check for seasoning; the balance may change slightly with adjusted quantities. You can also use a smaller baking dish to ensure even cooking, as it helps the dish remain hearty and cohesive.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid as brown rice requires longer cooking.

→ Can I prep this bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I use?

Feel free to substitute or add any of your favorite vegetables such as spinach, peas, or mushrooms!

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.