A delicous rice casserole

This is a great casserole that Daughter Number Three found. It has quickly become a family standard.

 

Rice And Easy Casserole

Serves: 4-6

Prep time: 25 min.
Total time: 1 hr., 20 min. 

Ingredients

2 tbsp. butter, divided
1 cup (8 oz.) rice
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup)
½ tsp. cayenne pepper
1 pkg. (8 oz.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
2 eggs
1 cup milk
4½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 tsp. dried basil
1 tsp. finely chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp. dried thyme

Directions

1.	Heat oven to 350ºF. Grease 9"x13" casserole dish with 1 tbsp. butter; set aside. Cook rice according to package directions; set aside.
2.	Heat remaining butter and oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions, sprinkle with cayenne pepper and cook until translucent, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Add the spinach; cook until heated through, about 5 minutes more; set aside.
3.	In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and the milk until well blended. Stir in 4 cups cheese, basil, parsley, thyme, reserved rice and reserved spinach mixture until combined. Pour rice mixture into prepared casserole dish; sprinkle with remaining cheese. Bake, uncovered, until cheese melts and begins to bubble, about 30 minutes.