If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal, this Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is perfect! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty dish that your family will love. I’ll guide you through each step, from browning the beef to selecting the best cheese for a perfect melt. Let’s dive into making this easy and flavorful casserole that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
The ingredients for this dish make it simple yet packed with flavor. You can adapt the recipe to fit what you have on hand. Ground beef is a staple and gives the casserole its rich taste. Rice acts as a hearty base, soaking up all the wonderful juices.
Diced tomatoes add moisture and a bit of zest. Cream of mushroom soup ties everything together, making the dish creamy and comforting. Fresh onions and garlic bring a savory aroma to your kitchen.
Spices like cumin and smoked paprika add warmth. They’re key to making this meal special. With cheese on top, you get a delicious, golden crust. The peas are optional but add a nice pop of color and nutrition.
This complete list of ingredients shows how easy it is to create a filling meal. Check out the Full Recipe for detailed steps to make this Ground Beef & Rice Casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease the casserole dish with cooking spray or oil.
Cooking the Meat
– In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
– Break it apart while cooking. Drain the excess fat if needed.
Mixing Ingredients
– Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion turns clear.
– Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper.
– In a large bowl, mix uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with all juices), cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth.
– If you like peas, toss them in now.
– Add the beef mixture to the bowl and stir well.
Assemble and Bake
– Transfer the mixture into the greased casserole dish.
– Cover it with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
– After 45 minutes, take off the foil. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
– Bake uncovered for another 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
– Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
– For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Expert Cooking Tips
To make this casserole great, start by browning the beef evenly. This step builds flavor. Stir it often to break it apart. If you skip this, your beef may not taste its best. Next, don’t forget to season well. Use salt, pepper, and spices to add depth. You can taste as you go to find the right balance.
Perfect Rice Consistency
Choosing the right rice is key. Long-grain rice works well in this dish. It cooks nicely and stays fluffy. Avoid overcooking the rice. If you cook it too long, it can become mushy. Follow the cooking times on the package for best results.
Cheese Melting Techniques
For a tasty topping, use shredded cheddar cheese. It melts well and adds flavor. To get a bubbly top, sprinkle the cheese on just before the end of baking. Broil for a minute if you want extra crispiness. Keep an eye on it; cheese can burn quickly.
For the full recipe, check out Savory Beef & Rice Delight.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This change makes the dish leaner. It keeps the same great flavor but with less fat. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or black beans. They offer protein and taste without meat.
Flavor Enhancements
To add more flavor, try different spices. A pinch of chili powder gives it a kick. You can also add Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a new twist. Don’t forget to mix in vegetables too. Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or spinach work well. They bring color and nutrients to the dish.
Dietary Adjustments
If you want a low-carb version, replace rice with cauliflower rice. It lowers the carbs while still being filling. For a gluten-free meal, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. You can also make it dairy-free by skipping the cheese or using a dairy-free alternative. This way, everyone can enjoy it. For the full recipe, check out the Savory Beef & Rice Delight.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Store your ground beef and rice casserole in the fridge. Use airtight containers for best results. Glass or plastic containers work well. Make sure the casserole cools down before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup. Always place leftovers in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This keeps your food safe to eat.
Freezing the Casserole
You can freeze the casserole before cooking. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. This keeps it fresh for about three months. To cook from frozen, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 1.5 hours. If you have leftovers, let them cool first. Then, place them in a freezer-safe container and store for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, bake at 350°F until hot.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, the casserole lasts for about three to four days. It’s best to eat it within this time for the best taste and safety. To keep it fresh, ensure your fridge is set to 40°F (4°C) or below. If you notice any off smells or mold, throw it away. Enjoy it while it’s fresh for the best flavors!
FAQs
How do I know when the casserole is done?
You can tell the casserole is done by checking a few signs:
– The cheese on top should be melted and bubbly.
– The rice should be tender and fully cooked.
– The edges of the casserole will be lightly browned.
– You can also use a fork to check the rice. If it’s soft, it’s ready.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Here are some tips:
– Assemble the casserole, but do not bake it yet.
– Cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
– Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
– When ready, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can use brown rice, but it will change the cooking time. Brown rice takes longer to cook. Here’s what to know:
– Use a bit more beef broth for moisture.
– Increase the baking time to about 60-75 minutes.
– Check the rice for doneness. It should be soft and fluffy.
Using brown rice gives a nice nutty flavor and adds more fiber.
This recipe offers a simple way to enjoy a hearty casserole. We covered important ingredients and clear steps for cooking. I shared tips for perfect rice and cheesy toppings. We also explored variations to suit different diets. Lastly, I provided storage instructions to keep leftovers fresh. Try this dish tonight for a tasty meal!
