If you’re searching for a satisfying, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any night of the week, this Beef and Rice Casserole is a go-to recipe. It combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and creamy mushroom soup, all topped with a generous layer of melted cheddar cheese. This casserole is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, making it an ideal meal for feeding a hungry family.
Ingredients:
- Ground Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean is ideal, but you can adjust based on preference)
- Seasonings:
- 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning (for a blend of herbs that complement the beef)
- Salt and pepper to taste (adjust according to your preference)
- Butter:
- 3 Tbsp butter, divided (to sauté the onions and add richness to the casserole)
- Onions:
- 3/4 cup onions, diced (yellow or white onions work well for their sweetness)
- Garlic:
- 1 Tbsp garlic, minced (adds a savory depth to the dish)
- Beef Broth:
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth (provides a flavorful base for cooking the rice)
- Rice:
- 1 1/4 cups uncooked long-grain white rice (ensure it’s not instant rice for the right texture)
- Mushrooms:
- 8 oz sliced button mushrooms (you can also use cremini mushrooms for a deeper flavor)
- Cream of Mushroom Soup:
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (adds creaminess and ties the ingredients together)
- Milk:
- 1/2 cup milk (helps to thin the soup and blend with the rice)
- Sour Cream:
- 1/2 cup sour cream (provides a tangy richness to the casserole)
- Cheddar Cheese:
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, divided (sharp cheddar works best, but you can use mild or a blend)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish lightly with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the ground beef. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and transfer the cooked beef to a plate. Set aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the mushrooms have softened and the garlic is fragrant.
- Cook the Rice:
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet with the onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Stir to coat the rice in the butter and allow it to toast slightly, about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Prepare the Casserole Mixture:
- Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the cooked ground beef.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream until well combined.
- Pour the soup mixture into the skillet with the beef and rice. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Finish with Cheese:
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil from the casserole. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the casserole warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Hearty and Filling: This casserole is packed with protein from the beef and cheese, and the rice adds a satisfying, starchy base that makes it a complete meal.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this casserole is easy enough for weeknight dinners but delicious enough to impress guests.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs. For example, use ground turkey instead of beef, add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or use a different type of cheese.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated until you’re ready to bake it, making it perfect for meal prep or busy nights.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t Overcook the Rice: When cooking the rice, be sure to follow the timing closely. You want the rice to be tender but not mushy, as it will continue to cook slightly in the oven.
- Use Good Quality Cheese: Freshly grated cheddar cheese melts better and provides a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
- Add Vegetables: For a more nutritious dish, consider adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach to the casserole.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the savory flavors of ground beef, the creaminess of mushroom soup, and the heartiness of rice, all topped with gooey, melted cheddar cheese. It’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table, making it a family favorite that’s sure to be requested time and time again. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or something to serve at a gathering, this casserole is a winner every time. Enjoy!
