Wild Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that blends nutty wild rice with creamy cheese, tender vegetables, and a crispy topping. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, perfect for chilly nights or gatherings where everyone wants something filling and delicious.
I love making this casserole because it’s so versatile—you can swap in your favorite vegetables or add some cooked chicken for extra protein. There’s something about the combination of the chewy wild rice and the melty cheese that just works every time, and the crunchy topping is always the best part.
Serving this wild rice casserole is a breeze and has become a favorite at our family dinners. I usually pair it with a simple salad or steamed greens to balance out the richness, but honestly, it’s wonderful on its own. It’s one of those recipes that feels special yet is easy enough to throw together on a busy day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wild Rice: This grain is the star here with its nutty taste and chewy texture. If you can’t find wild rice, a mix of brown rice and white rice works well too.
Vegetables: Onion, celery, bell pepper, and mushrooms add flavor and texture. Feel free to swap in zucchini, carrots, or spinach for variety or based on what you have.
Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice creamy touch. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese or skip it altogether. Swiss or Monterey Jack are tasty alternatives.
Milk or Cream: This keeps the casserole moist and creamy. You can use any milk type—whole, skim, or plant-based like almond or oat milk.
Bread Cubes: They give a crunchy top. If you prefer gluten-free, use gluten-free bread or crushed crackers instead.
How Do You Cook Wild Rice Perfectly for a Casserole?
Wild rice takes longer to cook than regular rice and needs enough liquid to puff up and become tender. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Rinse the rice well to remove any dust.
- Boil water or broth, then add the rice and lower the heat to simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook for about 45-50 minutes—don’t rush this step.
- Check if grains have burst open slightly and are tender but still chewy.
- Drain any leftover liquid so your casserole won’t be soggy.
Patience here makes a big difference in texture. Cooking wild rice ahead of time also helps your casserole come together faster.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium pot – Perfect for cooking the wild rice until tender and fluffy.
- Large skillet – Ideal for sautéing vegetables to develop flavor.
- Mixing bowl – To combine rice, vegetables, eggs, and other ingredients smoothly.
- Casserole dish – A 9×13-inch dish works well for baking the casserole evenly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To measure ingredients accurately.
- Spatula or spoon – For mixing and spreading ingredients in the dish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cheddar cheese for Swiss or Monterey Jack for different flavor notes.
- Add cooked chicken, turkey, or ham to make it more filling.
- Mix in chopped spinach, kale, or roasted vegetables for extra greens and nutrients.
- Sprinkle with crushed nuts or bread crumbs on top before baking for extra crunch.
How to Make Wild Rice Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1 cup wild rice, rinsed
- 3 cups water or broth (chicken or vegetable)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
- 1 cup celery, diced
- ½ cup green bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Topping:
- 1 cup bread cubes
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (to toss with bread cubes)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Time You’ll Need:
Preparing the wild rice and vegetables takes about 55 minutes, including simmering time. Baking the casserole will take another 30-35 minutes. So, set aside roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Wild Rice:
Begin by bringing the water or broth to a boil in a medium pot. Stir in the rinsed wild rice, cover it, and reduce the heat to low. Let it gently simmer for about 45 to 50 minutes until the rice becomes tender and puffs up. Drain any leftover liquid and set the rice aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, celery, green bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Remove the skillet from heat.
3. Mix Everything Together:
In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice with the sautéed vegetables. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, milk or cream, beaten eggs, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed.
4. Prepare the Casserole:
Pour the rice and vegetable mixture evenly into a lightly greased casserole dish.
5. Add the Topping and Bake:
In a small bowl, toss the bread cubes with the melted butter until coated. Sprinkle the buttery bread cubes evenly over the top of the casserole. Place the dish in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes, until the casserole is set and the topping is golden brown.
6. Serve and Garnish:
Let the casserole cool slightly after baking. If you like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving to add a fresh touch.
Enjoy your cozy, savory Wild Rice Casserole!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of Wild Rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice if wild rice isn’t available. Keep in mind brown rice cooks faster—about 30-40 minutes—so adjust cooking time accordingly and check for tenderness.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to baking time if it’s chilled.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual servings.
Can I Add Protein to This Recipe?
Yes! Cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage mix in nicely. Add them with the sautéed vegetables before combining everything in the bowl.