This Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. It combines lean ground beef, tender rice, savory mushrooms, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ¾ cup diced onions
- 1 ¼ cups uncooked white long grain rice
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- 8 oz. sliced button mushrooms
- 10.5 oz. cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, and sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the beef mixture and cook until they are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Season: Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Prepare the Rice Mixture
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the uncooked white rice and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Combine Creamy Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and 1 tablespoon of melted butter. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Mix Everything Together: Add the cooked rice and beef mixture to the bowl with the creamy ingredients. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Add Cheese: Fold in 1 cup of the cheddar cheese into the mixture.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the remaining tablespoon of butter. Pour the casserole mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Cool Slightly: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve this casserole with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Toppings: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and added flavor.
Cooking Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add more vegetables to the casserole, such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots, for added nutrition and flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Swiss, for a different flavor profile.
- Spice It Up: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the beef mixture.
- Rice Alternatives: Substitute the white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier option. Adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts as needed.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This casserole can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
This Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is a delightful and satisfying meal that is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and provides a comforting and hearty option for dinner. The combination of ground beef, rice, mushrooms, and cheese creates a dish that is both rich and comforting. With the simple steps and versatile ingredients, this casserole is perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a comforting weekend dinner. Enjoy the deliciousness of this classic comfort food!
