In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy for the contents of our refrigerators to accumulate, leaving us scratching our heads on how to use up everything before it goes bad. But fear not! This Slow Cooker Casserole recipe is here to rescue those forgotten veggies, that ground protein waiting to be transformed, and any miscellaneous ingredients lurking in the depths of your fridge. It’s a delicious solution to prevent food waste while creating a hearty and comforting meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds ground protein (beef, turkey, or your protein of choice)
- 1 sliced onion
- 4 diced or sliced potatoes
- 2 cups chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 3 cloves minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1.5 tablespoons A1 Sauce
- 3 tablespoons sliced butter
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
- 1.5 cups of water
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 10 ounces can condensed tomato soup
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Prep Ingredients: Start by chopping all your vegetables and mincing the garlic. Set them aside.
- Brown the Protein: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground protein until it’s fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat and set aside.
- Layer the Slow Cooker: Grease the bottom of your slow cooker with olive oil. Begin by layering sliced onions, followed by diced potatoes, chopped carrots, and celery.
- Add Seasoning: Sprinkle minced garlic, garlic powder, and A1 Sauce over the vegetables.
- Add Protein and Rice: Layer the cooked ground protein over the vegetables. Sprinkle uncooked white rice on top.
- Moisten with Water: Pour water over the layers to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
- Top with Butter and Cheese: Dot the top with slices of butter and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over everything.
- Pour in Tomato Soup: Pour the condensed tomato soup evenly over the contents of the slow cooker.
- Cook Slow and Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the vegetables are tender and the rice is cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, serve this hearty casserole straight from the slow cooker, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the flavors of your fridge clearing feast!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Customize with Your Favorites: Don’t hesitate to switch up the vegetables or protein based on what you have on hand or personal preferences.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to use different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for added flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: Substitute the white rice with cauliflower rice to make this dish keto-friendly. Additionally, reduce the amount of carrots and onions to lower the carb content.
- Low-Carb Twist: Skip the potatoes altogether and increase the amount of low-carb vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables for this recipe? A: Yes, frozen vegetables can be used as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to thaw them before adding them to the slow cooker.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? A: Absolutely! Simply omit the ground protein and increase the amount of vegetables or add plant-based protein alternatives like tofu or tempeh.
Q: Can I cook this casserole in the oven instead of a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can bake this casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 to 1.5 hours or until the vegetables are tender and the rice is cooked through.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving.
Transform your fridge leftovers into a delectable feast with this Slow Cooker Casserole recipe. Not only does it help reduce food waste, but it also delivers a satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor and wholesome goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to hit the spot. So, raid your refrigerator, gather your ingredients, and let your slow cooker work its magic as you indulge in the ultimate fridge clearing feast!
