Baked Rice and Egg Casserole

### Instructions:

1. **Preheat the Oven**:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup easier.

2. **Prepare the Rice**:
If you don’t already have cooked rice, prepare it according to the package instructions. Leftover rice works perfectly for this recipe, making it a great way to repurpose what’s in your fridge.

3. **Make the Egg Mixture**:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, pepper, and any seasonings you’re using. Beat the eggs until fully combined, and then stir in half of the cheese (reserve the other half for topping).

4. **Combine the Rice and Egg Mixture**:
Add the cooked rice to the egg mixture and stir to combine. If you’re adding vegetables, fold them in at this point. Ensure the rice is evenly coated with the egg mixture.

5. **Transfer to Casserole Dish**:
Pour the rice and egg mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

6. **Top with Cheese**:
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top of the casserole. This will create a golden, cheesy crust when baked.

7. **Bake the Casserole**:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is set in the middle. You can check the doneness by inserting a knife or toothpick into the center — it should come out clean when the casserole is fully baked.

8. **Cool and Serve**:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy this hearty, comforting meal!

### Variations to Try:
The beauty of a baked rice and egg casserole is how customizable it can be. Here are a few variations to consider:

– **Add Protein**: You can easily add cooked sausage, bacon, or ham for a heartier dish. Simply stir it into the rice and egg mixture before baking.
– **Vegetarian Version**: For a vegetarian option, load the casserole with your favorite vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or tomatoes. You could even try adding beans for extra protein.
– **Spicy Kick**: Add a bit of heat by mixing in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for a spicy twist.

### Why You’ll Love This Dish:
1. **Quick and Easy**: This casserole is a one-pan meal that requires minimal prep time. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something filling without a lot of effort.
2. **Flexible**: Whether you want to use up leftover rice or customize the recipe to suit your tastes, this dish can be adapted to suit any occasion.
3. **Comfort Food**: The combination of soft rice and creamy eggs makes for a dish that is warm, satisfying, and reminiscent of home-cooked meals.

### Final Thoughts:
Baked rice and egg casserole is a perfect meal for any time of day, offering a great balance of flavors and textures. With simple ingredients and endless variations, it’s an ideal dish for meal prepping or feeding a hungry family. Whether enjoyed on a lazy Sunday morning or for a quick weeknight dinner, this casserole will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection!