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Hearty Ground Beef And Rice Casserole Recipe

Hearty Ground Beef And Rice Casserole Recipe


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4.6 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 7 1x

Description

Hearty cheesy ground beef and rice casserole brings classic comfort to dinner tables across American kitchens. Melted cheese and seasoned beef create a satisfying meal perfect for family gatherings and simple weeknight dinners you’ll savor.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb (454 g) ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup white rice (uncooked, or brown rice adjusted for cook time)
  • 1 ¾ cups beef broth
  • 1 can (10.5 oz or 298 g) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or cream of cheddar)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz or 411 g) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • ½ cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
  • ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
  • 2 tbsps chopped parsley (for garnish)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp dried oregano

Instructions

  1. Prepare Baking Vessel: Coat a 9×13-inch dish thoroughly with cooking spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
  2. Brown Meat and Aromatics: In a robust skillet, sauté ground beef over medium-high heat until no pink remains, then incorporate finely chopped onions and garlic, allowing them to soften and release their aromatic essence.
  3. Season and Build Flavor: Introduce paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the meat mixture, creating a robust flavor profile. Fold in uncooked rice, ensuring each grain is coated with the savory seasonings.
  4. Create Creamy Sauce: Pour beef broth and condensed soup into the skillet, blending thoroughly to create a rich, velvety base. Gently fold in diced tomatoes, distributing ingredients evenly throughout the mixture.
  5. Assemble and Initial Baking: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading uniformly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F for 35-45 minutes, allowing the rice to steam and absorb the flavorful liquid.
  6. Cheese and Crisp Finish: Remove foil and lavishly sprinkle shredded cheese across the surface. Optional: Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter for an extra crispy topping. Return to the oven for a final 10-minute bake until cheese bubbles and breadcrumbs turn golden brown.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Adorn with freshly chopped parsley, adding a vibrant touch of color and fresh herb brightness to this comforting one-dish marvel.

Notes

  • Select Lean Beef: Choose ground beef with lower fat content (85/15 or 90/10) to reduce greasiness and create a lighter, healthier casserole.
  • Control Moisture Levels: Drain beef thoroughly after browning to prevent excess liquid from making the casserole soggy, ensuring a perfect texture and preventing rice from becoming mushy.
  • Customize Cheese Blend: Mix different cheese types like sharp cheddar, monterey jack, or mozzarella for a more complex, rich flavor profile that elevates the dish’s overall taste.
  • Adapt for Dietary Needs: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based alternatives, use cauliflower rice for low-carb version, and select gluten-free condensed soup to accommodate various dietary restrictions.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 7
  • Calories: 365
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 742 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 31 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg