Brazilian Baked Rice With Cheese and Tomatoes

It's not surprising to hear that Brazilian's love rice. But this Brazilian-Italian fusion dish is surprisingly easy and delicious! Just a few simple ingredients and you can have this delicious side dish too. It's starts with Brazilian rice, which is flavored with onions and garlic. Then it's mixed with crushed tomatoes and cheese for simple and perfect combination.

I love this baked rice with cheese and tomatoes with grilled or roasted veggies. But it goes wonderfully with any simple grilled chicken, pork, beef, or fish. Trying pairing this with Crusted Parmesan Pork Tenderloin for a fantastic dinner!

There is a very big Italian influence in the cuisine of Sao Paulo here in Brazil. In fact, Italian restaurants are nearly everywhere here! So, there are many Brazilian recipes that combine some of the traditional ingredients, such as rice, with Italian flavors and ingredients.

Ingredients and Swaps

• Cooked  Brazilian Rice with onions and garlic (You can use plain cooked white rice, but see notes)
• Whole Peeled tomatoes - You can substitute in Diced Tomatoes. You can also use fresh tomatoes diced. Beefsteak, vine, or plum tomatoes will all work. If you go the fresh route, you can use tomato sauce or tomato paste mixed with a little water for the topping.
• Shredded Mozzarella - I actually used a local cheese here in Brazil, called Queijo de Minas. It tastes and shreds very similarly to shredded mozzarella. You can use a variety of cheeses in this recipe or combinations. Monterey Jack, provolone, parmesan, manchego, cheddar, or even funkier cheese, such as feta or gorgonzola would be delicious! For the topping, you will want to go with a shredded melting cheese though.
• Salt - I use kosher salt for savory cooking, but any course salt or table salt will be fine. Seasoning the the beef before searing it is important for bringing out the most flavor.
• Ground black pepper - I used freshly ground black pepper, but pre-ground is perfectly fine.

Simple Equipment and Tools

For this recipe, you need a medium casserole dish that’s approximately 9×9, 10×10, or similar.

How to Make Recipe

Preheat the oven to 400 F degrees.

Make the Brazilian Rice with onions and garlic or simply use leftovers. Add to a large mixing bowl.

Separate the whole peel tomatoes from the sauce. Then crush the whole tomatoes with your fingers into a bowl or right into the rice.

Add 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Then mix the rice, tomatoes, and cheese until completely combined. Spread out into a 9x9 or 10x10 casserole dish.

To the reserved tomato sauce, add the salt and pepper, as well as the final ½ cup of shredded cheese. Mix to combine and then pour over the rice.

Bake the rice uncovered in the oven for 20 minutes or until the top is melty and golden brown. Serve and enjoy!

Baked Rice with Cheese and Tomatoes FAQs

Can I just use cooked white rice?If you already have cooked white rice without the additions of onion and garlic, you can use that as a starting point. I would saute ½ cup onions and and 2 cloves of minced garlic until softened and translucent. Then add those with the tomatoes to the rice.

Can I add any other ingredients to this baked rice with cheese?There are so many ingredients you could add to this baked rice! First, you can add a variety of herbs, including oregano, basil, rosemary, or Italian seasoning. You could add chopped olives, scallions, bacon, pancetta, chorizo, or other sausages. For heat, you could add jalapenos or other chile peppers. And of course, you could add additional sauteed veggies, such as red peppers, zucchini, or carrots.

How long can I store this baked rice?You can store this rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze this Baked Rice?You can freeze this rice after cooking. First, cool it in the fridge. Then transfer it to an airtight container. I find freezer bags work the best, as you can spread the rice out in a thin layer in a gallon bag. It helps to store it and to thaw it faster later. It will last in the freezer for up to 6 months.