Easy Rotel Mexican Rice

Why Make This Recipe

Easy Rotel Mexican Rice is a fantastic side dish that brings a burst of flavor and color to your meals. The combination of fluffy rice, zesty tomatoes, and melted cheese makes it a hit at any gathering. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

How to Make Easy Rotel Mexican Rice

Ingredients

• 2 cups rice
• 1 can Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 2 cups chicken broth or water
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add rice and sauté until lightly toasted.
3. Stir in the Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheese until melted.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve.

How to Serve Easy Rotel Mexican Rice

Serve Easy Rotel Mexican Rice as a side dish with grilled meats, tacos, or your favorite Mexican-inspired meals. You can also enjoy it as a main dish topped with avocado or additional veggies for a delicious vegetarian option.

How to Store Easy Rotel Mexican Rice

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The rice can last up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.

Tips to Make Easy Rotel Mexican Rice

• For extra flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or onions when sautéing the rice.
• You can adjust the spice level by choosing a hotter version of Rotel tomatoes.
• If you want a creamier texture, mix in some cream cheese along with the shredded cheese.

Variation

If you’re looking to mix things up, try adding black beans or corn for added texture and flavor. You can also use brown rice for a healthier option; just be sure to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, you can use brown rice. Just remember to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.
2. Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Absolutely! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit any meat when serving.
3. What can I add for extra protein? You can add cooked chicken, ground beef, or even beans to increase the protein in this dish.

Easy Rotel Mexican Rice

A vibrant and flavorful side dish featuring fluffy rice, zesty tomatoes, and melted cheese, perfect for any meal or gathering.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 270

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups rice White or brown rice can be used.
• 1 can Rotel tomatoes (diced tomatoes with green chilies)
• 2 cups chicken broth or water Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend) Adjust according to preference.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• to taste Salt and pepper
• to taste Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add rice and sauté until lightly toasted.
3. Stir in the Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheese until melted.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired and serve.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or onions when sautéing the rice. You can adjust the spice level by choosing a hotter version of Rotel tomatoes. If you want a creamier texture, mix in some cream cheese along with the shredded cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water.