Baked Veggie Rice Skillet

Name: Baked Veggie Rice Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rice (brown or white); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 carrot, grated; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional); 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Recipes

Whenever I want a meal that’s both comforting and healthy, I reach for this Baked Veggie Rice Skillet. It's a dish that brings together vibrant vegetables, fragrant spices, and wholesome rice, all baked to perfection. I love how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels like a special treat every time. The combination of textures and flavors always satisfies my cravings, and I enjoy the convenience of making it all in one pan. It's a delightful way to use up leftover veggies and feed my family something nutritious.

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:33:37.034Z

When I first started making this Baked Veggie Rice Skillet, I had a kitchen full of seasonal vegetables that needed to be used. The beauty of this dish is its versatility; you can toss in whatever you have on hand. I’ve experimented with zucchini, bell peppers, and even kale, adjusting the spices to elevate each version. My secret tip? Allow the rice to rest for a few minutes after baking to really soak up all those delicious flavors.

I've learned that baking the rice introduces a wonderful texture—and when topped with cheese, it becomes perfectly melty. This dish is not just eye-catching, but it also has fantastic staying power for leftovers. It's flavorful enough to serve at a gathering but simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Try it out, and you'll see why it's become a staple in my home!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Colorful and nutritious, packed with veggies
Easy one-pan preparation for hassle-free cooking
Perfectly cheesy topping for a comforting finish

      

Layering Flavors

In this Baked Veggie Rice Skillet, layering flavors is crucial to achieving a rich and satisfying taste. Start with sautéing the onions and garlic until they become translucent and aromatic; this base builds a solid foundation. As you add the bell pepper and zucchini, aim for vibrant colors to not only enhance presentation but also to maximize the nutrient intake. The spices, especially oregano and paprika, further elevate the dish by infusing it with savory warmth, so don’t hesitate to let them cook together for a few minutes to meld their aromas.

The choice of spices can be adjusted based on your preference or what you have on hand. For a more Mediterranean flair, consider adding Italian seasoning, or for a kick, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper. Remember, the key is to let the spices bloom in the sautéed vegetables before adding the rice; this technique releases essential oils and enhances their flavors throughout the dish.

Cheesy Comfort

Incorporating cheese into your Baked Veggie Rice Skillet adds not only creaminess but also a layer of comforting richness that elevates the entire dish. When you add the cheese, it’s best to use a mixture of cheeses. A sharp cheddar can provide robust flavor, while mozzarella contributes a delightful stretch. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, substituting with nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the milk. Just make sure to stir it in gently to achieve a nice, gooey melting before covering and letting it rest.

Letting the skillet rest for a few minutes after baking allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Additionally, this resting period allows the flavors to meld. If you prefer a more golden topping, you can broil the skillet for the last 2-3 minutes before removing it from the oven, but keep a close eye to prevent burning.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Leftovers from the Baked Veggie Rice Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes, checking the warmth throughout to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can warm it in a skillet over medium heat; this method may help retain the texture better and keep the veggies from becoming too mushy.

For serving, dress each plate with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an added freshness that contrasts with the hearty rice and cheese. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or crusty bread, making it versatile for any meal. You can also customize it by adding protein, like cooked chicken or chickpeas, to turn it into a more complete meal.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

1 cup rice (brown or white)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 carrot, grated
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to wash and chop the vegetables as needed before starting.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Sauté the Vegetables

In an oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Stir in the bell pepper, zucchini, carrot, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Cook for about 5 minutes until vegetables are slightly softened.

Add Rice and Broth

Add rice to the skillet, mixing it well with the vegetables. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil.

Bake

Once boiling, remove from heat, cover the skillet, and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes.

Add Spinach and Cheese

After 25 minutes, remove the skillet from the oven. Stir in the spinach and cheese if using, then cover and let it rest for 5 minutes.

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Baked Veggie Rice Skillet!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some chili flakes or your favorite hot sauce. You can also substitute quinoa for rice for a different flavor profile.

Techniques for Success

One of the most vital techniques in this recipe is the one-pan approach, which maximizes flavor and minimizes cleanup. Be sure to use an oven-safe skillet to seamlessly transition from stovetop to oven. Teflon or cast iron skillets work well for this. If you don’t have one, its fine; just transfer to a baking dish, but you may lose some of the flavor that develops from sautéing directly in the same pan.

Monitoring the cooking time is critical as well; too long and your rice could become mushy. After 25 minutes in the oven, check the rice’s texture. If it needs a bit more time, cover it tightly and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking periodically to avoid overcooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing for substitutions based on dietary preferences or what's available. If you don't have spinach on hand, try using kale or Swiss chard as a similar dark leafy green alternative. You can also experiment with different types of rice; for example, quinoa offers a protein boost and cooks in a similar manner, but keep an eye on the liquid ratio and cooking times.

For a heartier meal, you can add legumes like black beans or lentils, which pair wonderfully with the spices and add additional protein and fiber. If you're avoiding cheese entirely, consider adding avocado slices or a dollop of guacamole just before serving to offer creaminess without the dairy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and is more nutritious, but adjust cooking time as needed since it takes longer to cook.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add any seasonal vegetables like mushrooms, broccoli, or peas. Just be mindful of cooking times for denser veggies.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it in the oven before serving. Just be sure to cover it to retain moisture.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Definitely! Let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.