Neufchatel Rice

Description
Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

 * 3 cups cooked rice
 * 3 cups Italian-style vegetables, cooked and drained*
 * 1 1/2 cups (6 ounces) grated Cheddar cheese, divided
 * 6 ounces Neufchatel cheese, diced
 * 1 cup milk
 * 1/4 cup chopped onion
 * 2 cloves garlic, minced
 * 1 teaspoon salt
 * 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
 * 1/8 teaspoon hot pepper sauce
 * 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions
Combine rice and vegetables in large mixing bowl. Combine 1 cup Cheddar cheese, Neufchatel cheese, milk, onion, garlic, salt, mustard and pepper sauce in saucepan. Cook over low heat, stirring, until blended. Stir sauce into rice mixture. Turn into buttered shallow 2-quart baking dish. Turn into buttered shallow 2-quart baking dish. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Bake at 350 degrees 30 minutes, or until heated through. Sprinkle with parsley.