Description: A hearty and comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines flavorful ground beef, fluffy rice, creamy mushroom soup, and plenty of cheese for a dish the whole family will love. It’s easy to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for busy evenings.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef
- 2 cups cooked white rice (long-grain or medium-grain work well)
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk (whole milk or 2% work best, but any milk will do)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (sharp or mild cheddar are great options)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the casserole cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly. While the oven is preheating, you can start preparing the other ingredients.
Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat. Break the beef apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink. Make sure the ground beef is fully cooked through to avoid any foodborne illnesses.
Step 3: Once the ground beef is cooked, drain off any excess fat. Use a colander or carefully tilt the skillet and spoon out the grease. Removing the excess fat will prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined. The mixture should be creamy and evenly distributed.
Step 5: Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed over the surface. This layer of cheese will create a delicious, golden-brown crust.
Step 7: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is hot and bubbly. The casserole should be heated through and the cheese should be melted and slightly browned.
Step 8: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the casserole to set slightly and prevent it from being too runny.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and creamy cheese is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping for the week. Its versatility allows you to easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and ground beef. The cheesy, bubbly topping is irresistible, and the hearty filling will leave you feeling satisfied and content. This casserole is not only delicious but also budget-friendly and time-saving, making it a winner in every way.
Serving Suggestions:
This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some suggestions:
- Green Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a healthy and colorful side.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a classic side dish that complements the flavors of the casserole.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a creamy and crunchy element to the meal.
Tips:
- Customize the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella.
- Add Vegetables: Mix in cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn for added nutrients and flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Use Different Meats: Substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the ground beef.
- Make it Ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- Freeze it: This casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 390 kcal per serving
- Protein: Approximately 30g per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 500mg per serving
Conclusion:
This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. Its ease of preparation, customizable nature, and delicious flavor make it a staple recipe for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a simple way to use up leftover ingredients, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
- Yes, you can definitely use brown rice. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice, so make sure it is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. You may also need to add a little more liquid (milk or broth) to the casserole, as brown rice tends to absorb more moisture.
- Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
- Absolutely! To make this casserole vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or a combination of cooked lentils and chopped mushrooms. You can also add extra vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to enhance the flavor and texture.
- Can I use a different type of soup instead of cream of mushroom?
- Yes, you can use other cream-based soups such as cream of chicken, cream of celery, or cream of cheddar. Each soup will impart a slightly different flavor to the casserole, so choose one that complements the other ingredients.
- How can I prevent the casserole from drying out?
- To prevent the casserole from drying out, make sure to add enough liquid (milk or broth) to the mixture. You can also cover the baking dish with foil during the first half of the baking time and remove the foil for the last 10-15 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and brown.
- Can I add more cheese to this recipe?
- Of course! Feel free to add more cheese to the casserole. You can mix additional cheese into the filling or sprinkle more on top. A combination of different cheeses, such as cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack, can create a delicious and flavorful cheese blend.
