There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm plate of Beef & Rice Casserole. It brings back memories of cozy family dinners at my grandma’s house, where we’d gather around the table, the delicious aroma wafting through the air. This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening, combining savory ground beef, tender rice, and juicy tomatoes in a rich, flavorful sauce. What I love most is how easy it is to whip up—just a few simple ingredients and you’re ready to go! Trust me, once you try this Beef & Rice Casserole, it’ll become a go-to in your home too. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty without all the fuss!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese
How to Prepare Beef & Rice Casserole
Step-by-Step Instructions
Ready to dive into making this delicious Beef & Rice Casserole? Let’s get started! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s all set to go when your casserole is ready to bake.
Now, grab a skillet and brown the ground beef over medium heat. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You want that beautiful browning to happen, so don’t rush it! Once the beef is sizzling and cooked through, drain any excess fat if needed.
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook these for another 2-3 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant—oh, the smell is heavenly! Then, it’s time to stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Mix it well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the rice start absorbing that wonderful sauce.
Now, transfer your beef and rice mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Don’t forget to cover it with shredded cheese on top; this is where the magic happens! Finally, pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden. Trust me, you’ll want to keep an eye on it as it bakes—your kitchen will smell amazing!
Tips for Success
Want to take your Beef & Rice Casserole to the next level? Here are some of my favorite pro tips! First, be sure to season your beef well while browning it—this adds so much flavor right from the start. If you’re looking to sneak in some extra veggies, bell peppers or peas mix beautifully into the casserole, adding color and nutrition. Also, keep an eye on the cooking time; every oven is different! You want that cheese to be perfectly melted and bubbly, but not burnt. If you find the top is browning too quickly, just cover it with aluminum foil. And remember, letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking allows the flavors to settle—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food, I always say it’s essential to know what you’re working with! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, but here’s a general idea of what you can expect from a serving of this Beef & Rice Casserole:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 25g
So, you can indulge a little without too much guilt! Just remember to adjust your ingredients based on your dietary needs and preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in about 40 minutes!
- Hearty and filling, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
- One-pot meal that minimizes cleanup—win-win!
- Kid-friendly flavors that the whole family will adore.
- Versatile—you can easily add your favorite veggies or swap proteins.
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Getting the ingredients just right can really elevate your Beef & Rice Casserole! If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using low-sodium beef broth instead of regular broth to cut down on the salt. For a lighter version, you can easily substitute ground turkey for the beef—just be sure to add a little extra seasoning to keep those flavors vibrant!
If you want to sneak in more veggies, I recommend adding bell peppers or frozen peas—they blend right in and give a nice pop of color. And don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of cheese! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack can add a delightful twist to the casserole. Just remember, the key is to keep it simple and make it your own!
FAQ Section
Can I make this Beef & Rice Casserole ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of ground beef? If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works great! You can also try using ground chicken or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian twist.
How do I know when the casserole is done? You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rice is tender. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze any leftovers! Just let the casserole cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake until hot throughout.
What should I serve with Beef & Rice Casserole? This dish is hearty enough on its own, but if you want to add some color, a fresh green salad or steamed veggies would be perfect on the side!
Serving Suggestions
This Beef & Rice Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to add a little something extra, I highly recommend serving it with a crisp green salad. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole. You could also pair it with some steamed broccoli or green beans for a pop of color and nutrition. Trust me, your family will love this delicious combo!
Print
Beef & Rice Casserole: 5 Steps to Cozy Comfort Food
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty beef and rice casserole that combines savory beef with tender rice in a flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
- Stir in rice, broth, tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish.
- Cover with cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until rice is cooked and cheese is melted.
Notes
- Use low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
- Substitute ground turkey for a leaner dish.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Beef & Rice Casserole, casserole recipes, beef recipes, rice dishes