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Loaded pizza rice bake topped with pepperoni, melted mozzarella, black olives, and fresh basil served on a white plate.

Cheesy Cheese Pizza Rice Bake

Owen ParkerOwen Parker
A delightful combination of pizza and a baked rice dish, perfect for family dinners.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 8 slices
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Baking Dish 9x13 inch
  • 1 Mixing Bowl large
  • 1 Measuring Cups

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups cooked rice
  • 2 cups pizza sauce
  • 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup sliced bell peppers
  • 1/2 cup sliced olives
  • 1/2 cup diced onions

Optional Toppings

  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1/2 cup turkey pepperoni slices
  • 1/4 cup pineapple chunks

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Cook the rice according to package instructions. Once done, let it cool slightly before spreading it in a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine pizza sauce with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well.
  • Spread the pizza sauce evenly over the rice. Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
  • Distribute bell peppers, olives, and onions over the cheese. Add any additional toppings as desired.
  • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, ensuring all toppings are covered.

Cooking

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serving

  • Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side of salad or bread.

Storage

  • Cover leftovers with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Notes

Pro Tips: Use day-old rice for better texture. Experiment with cheese blends. Pre-cook toppings for enhanced flavor. Let rest before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions: Use turkey pepperoni for a pork-free option. Swap mozzarella with cheddar for a sharper taste.
How to Serve: Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
Keyword cheese pizza rice bake, Family Dinner, pizza casserole