Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Requires minimal prep and uses common pantry ingredients.​
• One-Pan Meal: Simplifies cooking and cleanup.​Jar of Lemons+1dinnersdishesanddesserts.com+1
• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults.​
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different vegetables or proteins.​
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared in advance and stored for later.​

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef​The Spruce Eats+11mandyinthemaking.com+11Allrecipes+11
• 1 small onion, diced​Log in or sign up to view
• 2 cloves garlic, minced​
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked​Oh Sweet Basil+2Log in or sign up to view+2I Am Homesteader+2
• 2 cups beef broth​Log in or sign up to view+1The Cozy Cook+1
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup​The Cozy Cook
• 1/2 cup milk​The Cozy Cook
• 1/2 cup sour cream​The Cozy Cook
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided​The Cozy Cook
• Salt and pepper to taste​
• Optional: 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables​

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).​
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.​
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.​
4. Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream. Mix well.​I Am Homesteader+2The Cozy Cook+2dinnersdishesanddesserts.com+2
5. Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the optional mixed vegetables. Season with salt and pepper.​
6. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.​
7. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.​
8. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.​
9. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6​EatingWell+3Log in or sign up to view+3Allrecipes+3
• Prep Time: 15 minutes​
• Cook Time: 55-60 minutes​
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes​I Am Homesteader+2dinnersdishesanddesserts.com+2Jar of Lemons+2

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.​I Am Homesteader+7thecountrycook.net+7dinnersdishesanddesserts.com+7
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.​
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.​
• Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or a blend for varied flavors.​
• Whole Grain: Substitute white rice with brown rice; adjust cooking time accordingly.​

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.​The Cozy Cook
• Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.​
• Reheating: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.​

FAQs

Can I use instant rice?

It’s best to use long-grain white rice, as instant rice may become too mushy during baking.​I Am Homesteader

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.​

What can I serve with this casserole?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish well.​

Can I use a different type of soup?

Yes, cream of chicken or celery soup can be used as alternatives to cream of mushroom.​

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cream soup and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.​

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely, feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach.​

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese, milk, and sour cream substitutes.​

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?

Ensure it’s covered during the initial baking time and don’t overbake.​

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish; adjust baking time as needed.​

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.​

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a versatile and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple preparation and comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this hearty casserole

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