Ultimate South-of-the-Border Rice Bake Recipe

Step 1

Start by bringing a pot of rice and 2 cups of water to a lively boil. Let it dance for a bit, then lower the heat to a gentle medium-low, cover it up, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the water, usually around 20 to 25 minutes.

Step 2

While the rice is getting cozy, preheat your oven to a toasty 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 3

Once the rice is ready, let's add some excitement! Mix in some chili beans, tomato sauce, and a splash of 3/4 cup of water, creating a flavorful concoction. Let it mingle on medium heat until it reaches a gentle simmer. Now, pour this delightful mix into a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 4

Next, it's time to get creative! Spread a smooth layer of sour cream over the rice blend. Sprinkle a generous amount of crushed corn chips on top of the creamy layer, creating a satisfying crunch. Finish off this masterpiece by generously sprinkling a Mexican cheese blend over everything.

Step 5

Pop the dish into the preheated oven and let it bake until it's all warm and gooey, with the cheese beautifully melted on top, typically around 15 minutes.

Step 6

Enjoy this delightful dish straight from the oven, savoring the layers of flavors and textures that make it a true crowd-pleaser.