Barbecue Beef and Rice Casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. This casserole combines ground beef, rice, corn, black beans, and cheese with a flavorful barbecue sauce. It’s easy to make and sure to be a hit with the whole family. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe and learn how to make it step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup kernel corn
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the Rice:
- Cook 3 cups of rice according to the package instructions. Set aside.
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture
- Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Barbecue Sauce:
- Stir in 1 cup of barbecue sauce, mixing well to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is heated through.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, kernel corn, black beans, and ground beef mixture. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Add Cheese:
- Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake:
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to reduce the amount of excess fat. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite barbecue sauce for this recipe. A smoky or sweet variety works well.
- Cheese: Feel free to use a different type of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend, for added flavor.
Variations
Spicy Barbecue Beef and Rice Casserole
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Southwestern Barbecue Beef and Rice Casserole
- Add 1 cup of diced bell peppers and 1/2 cup of sliced black olives to the casserole for a Southwestern twist.
Vegetarian Barbecue Rice Casserole
- Replace the ground beef with an additional cup of black beans and 1 cup of diced zucchini or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q: What can I serve with Barbecue Beef and Rice Casserole? A: This casserole pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or cornbread.
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? A: Yes, you can use brown rice for a healthier option. Adjust the cooking time as needed for the rice.
Barbecue Beef and Rice Casserole is a flavorful and hearty dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its combination of seasoned ground beef, rice, corn, black beans, and cheese, it’s sure to be a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this casserole is easy to make and always delicious. Enjoy making and sharing this comforting dish with your family and friends!
