Creamy Potato and Rice Casserole

Name: Creamy Potato and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 15 min
Yield: 6.0
Ingredients: 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 can cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience comforting flavors with this creamy potato and rice casserole that combines tender potatoes with fluffy rice in a rich, cheesy sauce. This easy slow-cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and makes for a satisfying side dish or a hearty main course. Ideal for families and meal prep enthusiasts alike, enjoy a warm, home-cooked meal that both kids and adults will love.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-11-24T03:39:10.191Z

This creamy potato and rice casserole is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Perfectly suitable for serving as either a main dish or a side, this casserole guarantees to please all palates.

The Perfect Comfort Food

There's something inherently comforting about casseroles, and this creamy potato and rice casserole is no exception. Combining the heartiness of potatoes with the fluffy texture of rice, it creates a satisfying dish that warms the soul. The rich, cheesy sauce is the star, enveloping every bite in a delightful creaminess that is hard to resist. Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers, it promises to be a hit at your table.

Not only is this casserole delicious, but it's also incredibly versatile. You can easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a great base for experimentation. Whether you're looking to sneak in some greens or add leftover chicken, the possibilities are endless. This adaptability makes it an ideal go-to recipe for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Each variation brings its unique flavor and flair, ensuring that you never tire of this comforting classic.

Easy Slow Cooker Convenience

One of the standout features of this creamy potato and rice casserole is its simplicity. By utilizing a slow cooker, you can prepare all the ingredients in one pot and let the magic happen with minimal effort. Just combine the ingredients, set the timer, and go about your day while your meal cooks to perfection. This saves you valuable time and energy, making it an excellent choice for hectic weeknights.

The slow cooking method also contributes to the rich flavors that develop as the ingredients meld together over time. This means you can expect a dish that tastes like it has been simmering for hours, even though it only took you minutes to prepare. Moreover, using a slow cooker allows for a hands-off approach, so you can spend quality time with your family instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

Family-Friendly Meal Prep

When it comes to family meals, choosing dishes that appeal to both kids and adults can be challenging. This creamy potato and rice casserole tackles that dilemma head-on. With its cheesy flavor and comforting textures, it’s a dish that even picky eaters will enjoy. Plus, it's a fantastic way to use up leftovers, making it a practical option for families who prioritize both taste and efficiency.

This recipe also makes fantastic leftovers. You can easily scale up the recipe to ensure you have enough for lunch the next day, or to freeze for later use. This ensures that you have a hearty, home-cooked meal ready to go, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Simply reheat, and you’re set for another nourishing meal without any hassle.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all components are ready to go before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your casserole:

Prepare the Casserole

In a slow cooker, combine the diced potatoes, cooked rice, cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the potatoes are tender.

Serve

Once cooked, stir the casserole and serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious casserole!

Nutritional Benefits

This casserole doesn’t just taste great; it also offers a range of nutritional benefits, particularly from its main ingredients. Potatoes are a great source of vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium and dietary fiber. When combined with rice, you create a complete protein, providing essential nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet. The addition of dairy from the cheese and milk further enriches the dish with calcium for strong bones and teeth.

Remember that you can enhance the nutritional profile by tossing in some veggies such as spinach, broccoli, or carrots. This will increase the fiber and nutrient content while adding vibrant colors to your meal. You can easily customize this dish to fit different dietary needs while still delivering superb flavor.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your creamy potato and rice casserole turns out perfectly every time, remember not to overcook the potatoes. They should be tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on them as they cook. Cooking on low for four hours typically yields the best results, but you can adjust the cooking time depending on your slow cooker model and the size of the potato pieces.

Another tip is to use high-quality cheese for a richer flavor. Cheddar is a classic choice, but you could also experiment with Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for added depth. Additionally, consider seasoning your layers—sprinkling some salt and pepper directly onto the potato layers can enhance the overall flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy potato and rice casserole can be enjoyed in multiple ways. Serve it as a substantial side dish next to roasted chicken or grilled fish for a complete meal. Alternatively, it can stand alone as a hearty main course. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to round out your dining experience.

If you want to elevate your casserole further, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor with a fresh, herby note. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, drizzle some hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top to give your dish an extra kick.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.