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#### **Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables**
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Stir in the cumin and smoked paprika, cooking for another 1-2 minutes to let the spices bloom.
#### **Step 4: Assemble the Bake**
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed onions and garlic, chopped roasted poblanos, chicken broth, sour cream, and about 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Stir until all ingredients are evenly combined, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
#### **Step 5: Bake**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the rice mixture to a greased 9×9-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheese.
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden brown.
#### **Step 6: Serve**
Once your Cheesy Poblano Rice Bake is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro if desired for an extra burst of freshness and color.
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### **Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Poblano Rice Bake**
– **Customize the Heat**: If you like more heat, you can add a diced jalapeño along with the onions and garlic. For less heat, remove the seeds from the poblanos before roasting.
– **Protein Boost**: To make this dish a full meal, consider adding shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked ground beef. Stir it into the rice mixture before baking for a hearty, satisfying meal.
– **Cheese Options**: Experiment with different cheese combinations for a variety of flavors. A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack is perfect, but feel free to add pepper jack for extra spice or use queso blanco for a milder option.
– **Leftovers**: This bake makes fantastic leftovers! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
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### **Why You Should Try This Recipe**
This Cheesy Poblano Rice Bake is the perfect balance of comfort and flavor. The smoky, roasted poblano peppers elevate a simple rice bake into something extraordinary. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it as a main course, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household. It’s easy to make, adaptable, and most importantly, absolutely delicious.
If you’re craving something hearty, cheesy, and full of flavor, give this Cheesy Poblano Rice Bake a try tonight. It’s a dish that everyone will love!
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