If you’ve ever wished for a rice dish that’s just as comforting as it is vibrant, this Parsley Rice Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a deliciously creamy casserole where fluffy rice and fresh parsley join golden cheddar cheese, eggs, and a hint of spice, all coming together in one irresistible bake. Whether you’re looking for a weekday dinner hero or a side that will wow at any potluck, this is the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again. The Parsley Rice Recipe is both simple to prepare and packed with lively flavors—and I can’t wait for you to taste it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Parsley Rice Recipe is all about the balance of humble, everyday ingredients working together. Each item isn’t just there for show; it brings key flavor, creamy texture, or a pop of color that makes this dish sing. Let’s take a glance at what makes every bite special.

Rice: White rice gives the base its classic texture, soaking up all the casserole’s savory richness.
Fresh Parsley: This bright herb adds freshness, a lovely green hue, and a hint of earthiness.
Eggs: Beaten eggs hold everything together, giving the casserole its satisfying, almost soufflé-like bite.
Cheddar Cheese: Expect pockets of melty cheese and a deeply savory taste with every forkful.
Milk: Milk softens the overall casserole, bringing gentle creaminess and cohesion.
Vegetable or Canola Oil: Oil keeps the whole bake moist without overpowering other flavors.
Onion: Finely grated onion practically melts into the dish, providing a subtle savory backbone.
Dry Mustard: Just a pinch brightens and sharpens the finished casserole, balancing its richness.
Salt: A little here and a little there ensures that every layer is tasty—don’t skip it!
Butter: Butter cooks the rice and also greases the baking dish for that gorgeous golden crust.

How to Make Parsley Rice Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in ½ teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of butter—these little touches make the rice extra flavorful and tender. Add in your dry rice, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll want all the water to be absorbed, leaving you with fluffy grains ready to soak up everything else. Once done, take it off the heat and let it cool for a few minutes while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

While the rice works its magic, crack your eggs into a large mixing bowl, and give them a gentle beating with a fork. This simple step is the secret to a souffle-like texture. Then, grate your onion finely (so it almost disappears once baked), chop the fresh parsley for that burst of herby aroma, and shred your cheddar. Toss all of these straight into the eggs for a bowl full of color and goodness.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Into that same bowl, add your 1 teaspoon of salt, dry mustard, milk, and oil. Give everything a good mix—don’t be shy—until the ingredients are well combined. You’ll notice how creamy and enticing it already looks at this stage, with the parsley adding a pop of green throughout.

Step 4: Add Rice

Take your freshly cooked rice and gently fold it into the mixture in the bowl. Using a spatula or a big spoon, stir everything together. This is when it all comes together—the rice soaks up each savory, cheesy, herby element, guaranteeing that every bite will be bliss.

Step 5: Bake

Now, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×11-inch baking dish and give it a light coating of butter, which helps with easy serving and gives you those delicious crispy edges. Pour the rice mixture into the dish and spread it out in an even layer. Pop it in the oven and bake uncovered for about 1 hour, until golden on top and set throughout. Your kitchen will smell irresistible!

How to Serve Parsley Rice Recipe

Garnishes

The finishing touches really make your Parsley Rice Recipe stand out. Try sprinkling extra fresh parsley on top right before serving to intensify the green freshness, or add a dusting of finely grated cheddar for a little more cheesy allure. If you want to get fancy, a few thinly sliced scallions or a light drizzle of olive oil can also add color and a gourmet touch.

Side Dishes

This casserole-style rice is endlessly versatile. Serve your Parsley Rice Recipe alongside simply grilled chicken, roast beef, or lemony fish for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with baked vegetables or a crisp salad topped with vinaigrette—the richness of the rice balances out lighter sides perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Bring your Parsley Rice Recipe to the table in an eye-catching baking dish for family-style serving, or spoon it into individual ramekins before baking for a dinner party twist. You can even pack it into a small ring mold for a fun, stackable presentation. This dish is right at home served as part of a brunch spread, too—think alongside quiches and roasted veggies.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Parsley Rice Recipe can be cooled to room temperature, then stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it excellent for meal prep or easy grab-and-go lunches all week long.

Freezing

If you want to make your Parsley Rice Recipe ahead—or simply have extra for a rainy day—it freezes beautifully! Cut it into single portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months, just waiting for you to reheat and enjoy.

Reheating

To reheat, place your portion of Parsley Rice Recipe in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until hot throughout. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works too: cover and heat on medium power in short bursts, adding a splash more milk if it seems dry. Either way, it comes out tasting just as fantastic as when first baked!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for the Parsley Rice Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white in the Parsley Rice Recipe, though you’ll need to cook it longer and expect a chewier texture and deeper nutty flavor. Be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the brown rice package instructions before assembling the casserole.

Is it necessary to use fresh parsley, or can I use dried?

Fresh parsley is preferred because it adds bright, vibrant flavor and color to the Parsley Rice Recipe. However, if fresh isn’t available, you can use about one-third the amount of dried parsley—just know the dish may have a milder herbal note and less green pop.

Can I make the Parsley Rice Recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute your favorite plant-based milk and a dairy-free shredded cheese for the milk and cheddar, and use oil or plant-based butter in place of regular butter. The recipe holds together well and still brings that comfort-food feeling, even without dairy.

What other herbs can I add for variety?

Feel free to get creative by folding in a handful of chopped green onions, fresh dill, or even a little basil along with the parsley. Just remember—the beauty of the Parsley Rice Recipe is its simplicity, so try not to overwhelm the dish with too many flavors at once.

Can I prepare this dish in advance and bake later?

Yes! Simply assemble everything up to the point of baking, cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let the dish stand at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven as directed. The Parsley Rice Recipe is a great make-ahead option for entertaining or busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

Few dishes deliver comfort, flavor, and a pop of fresh color like this Parsley Rice Recipe. If you’ve never tried baking rice into a casserole with eggs, cheese, and a heap of herbs, you’re in for such a treat. Go ahead—gather your ingredients and let this cozy, irresistible recipe become a new favorite in your kitchen!

Parsley Rice Recipe