Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a quick family dinner. With its creamy texture, hearty flavor, and delicious mix of ingredients, this dish delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Did you know that casseroles have been a staple in American households since the 19th century? They’re loved for their ease of preparation and the way they bring everyone together around the dinner table. Plus, this Ground Beef Rice Casserole can be whipped up in no time, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights!
Imagine a dish that’s not only filling but also brings a smile to your family’s faces – this casserole does just that! If you love dishes like our popular Cheesy Chicken and Rice, you’ll definitely want to give this one a try. Let’s dive into why this casserole is a must-make and how it can become a household favorite.
What is Ground Beef Rice Casserole?
Okay, let’s talk about the name – Ground Beef Rice Casserole. Sounds pretty straightforward, right? You might be wondering if all casseroles are created equal or if this one holds a special place in the hearts of home cooks everywhere. Picture this: a cozy evening, and nothing sounds more comforting than a melty, bubbling casserole. Some people say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach; well, Ground Beef Rice Casserole surely proves that point! So why not give this heartwarming dish a whirl? Your family will thank you!
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Rice Casserole
There are so many reasons to fall in love with Ground Beef Rice Casserole!
- Hearty and Satisfying: With a rich blend of ground beef, rice, and a cheesy topping, this dish is a meal in itself. It’s not just filling; it’s downright delightful!
- Cost-Effective: Making this casserole at home is an economical choice. Ground beef is affordable, and when combined with pantry staples like rice and cheese, you can create a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
- Customizable Ingredients: The wonderful thing about this dish is its versatility. You can add vegetables, different spices, or even swap out the cheese for what you have on hand! Just like our Chicken and Rice Casserole, this recipe is perfect for using up leftovers and making each meal unique.
Why not roll up your sleeves and try your hand at this scrumptious casserole?
How to Make Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Quick Overview
Ground Beef Rice Casserole is all about simplicity and flavor. Prepare to be wowed by the creamy texture and burst of flavors that come together effortlessly in just around 45 minutes. With just a little hands-on time, you can serve a delightful meal that everyone will love!
Key Ingredients for Ground Beef Rice Casserole
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, or corn)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly.
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onions. Sauté until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef and onions with the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Transfer to Casserole Dish: Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Serve: Take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious casserole while it’s warm!
What to Serve Ground Beef Rice Casserole With
Planning your meal? Ground Beef Rice Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. You could even serve it alongside crispy garlic bread for a delightful crunch. For a refreshing drink, consider pairing it with iced tea or lemonade to balance the savory flavors.
Top Tips for Perfecting Ground Beef Rice Casserole
- Ingredient Substitutions: If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Timing Adjustments: If you’re using brown rice instead of white rice, you may need to increase the cooking time as brown rice typically requires longer to cook.
- Common Mistakes: Be sure to measure out your rice and broth accurately. Too little liquid can result in undercooked rice, while too much can make your casserole soupy!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? Store your Ground Beef Rice Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it before baking; it can last for up to 3 months! To reheat, simply bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions until hot. Always ensure that it’s heated thoroughly, and enjoy the comfort of home-cooked leftovers!
With this delightful Ground Beef Rice Casserole recipe, dinner is bound to be enjoyable and stress-free. So why not gather your ingredients and hit the kitchen? Your family will appreciate the love and good food you put on the table!
Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your favorite)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, or corn)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onions. Sauté until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef and onions with the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a lightly greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Baking
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
Serving
- Take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this delicious casserole while it’s warm!
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