This Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a cozy dish that brings together tasty beef, fluffy rice, and your favorite veggies all in one pot. It’s a simple meal that warms the heart!
It’s the kind of casserole that makes leftovers disappear faster than you can blink. I love serving it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—because cheese makes everything better, right? 😄
I appreciate how easy this recipe is! Just mix everything, bake, and enjoy. Perfect for busy nights when I need a satisfying meal without many dishes to wash!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken can work just as well. They offer a different flavor and are lower in fat.
Long-Grain White Rice: This type is perfect because it cooks evenly in this casserole. If you have brown rice, you can use it too, but remember it will need more liquid and cooking time.
Beef Broth: Chicken broth can be a handy substitute if beef broth is not available. It will slightly change the flavor but still taste great. A veggie broth is also a good option for a lighter feel.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you want a homemade version, you can make a quick white sauce and mix it with mushrooms. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or a store-bought dairy-free cream soup.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, any melting cheese such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella can do the job. Choose what you prefer or have on hand.
How Do I Ensure the Rice Cooks Perfectly in the Casserole?
The rice can be a tricky element in casseroles, but don’t worry! Here’s how to get it just right:
- When adding the uncooked rice and broth, make sure the liquid is bubbling lightly before covering it and reducing the heat. This step helps the rice to absorb moisture evenly.
- Cover the skillet well while it simmers to trap steam, which is crucial for cooking the rice properly.
- Keep an eye on it—after 15 minutes, check if the rice has absorbed the liquid. If not, cover and let it sit a few more minutes.
By following these steps, your rice will be tender and flavorful, making your casserole a hit! Enjoy cooking!
Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes before you can dig in. It’s a great meal that comes together quickly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will make sure it’s hot and ready for your casserole when the time comes!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, pour in a drizzle of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add your finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This will give a wonderful flavor to your dish!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Use a spatula to break it up and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure there are no pink spots—nobody wants that!
4. Combine Rice and Broth:
Next, stir in the uncooked rice and pour in the beef broth. Bring this mixture to a light boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. You want the rice to soak up most of the liquid—this is where the magic happens!
5. Mix in Cream of Mushroom Soup:
After simmering, remove the skillet from heat and mix in the cream of mushroom soup. Stir well until everything is fully combined—this will make your casserole creamy and delicious.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Next, transfer this tasty mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Be sure to spread it out evenly. Now, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. More cheese = more yum!
7. Bake the Casserole:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. This will help everything set a bit. While waiting, slice up your green onions for garnish.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish the casserole with the sliced green onions for a fresh touch just before serving. Scoop out a portion and enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Rice Casserole with family or friends!
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it typically requires a longer cooking time. You’ll want to add about an additional 20-25 minutes to the simmering step in the skillet, and you may need to add more beef broth to ensure the rice cooks properly and absorbs enough liquid.
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey or Chicken for Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken make great lean substitutes. Just be aware that they might have a milder flavor, so consider adding extra seasoning like herbs or spices to enhance the taste. The cooking process remains the same!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it in the microwave or in a pan on the stove, adding a splash of broth or a bit of water to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time! Assemble it in the baking dish and cover it tightly with foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. If it’s been in the fridge, you might need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through thoroughly.
