A Comforting Ground Beef and Rice Casserole to Delight the Whole Family
When it comes to home-cooked meals that bring comfort and joy, this Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is an absolute winner. Your family will adore the rich flavors and heartiness of this dish, and you’ll love how easy it is to prepare. My husband jokingly pleaded with me to never make it again… because he couldn’t stop eating it! Sorry, dear, this recipe is a keeper.
Ingredients Overview
Ground Beef: The foundation of this casserole, ground beef brings savory richness and a satisfying texture. Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty yet healthy.
Cooked Rice: The perfect filler, cooked rice adds a comforting bulk to the casserole. Use white, brown, or even wild rice for different flavor profiles.
Onion: Chopped onions introduce a sweet and aromatic base, enhancing the overall flavor.
Bell Peppers: Choose any color bell peppers you like. They add a beautiful crunch and vibrant color, making the dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Diced Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce: These tomatoes add juiciness and tang, binding all the ingredients together in a luscious tomato base.
Spices: Garlic powder, salt, and black pepper are simple yet essential, bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients without overwhelming them.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melted cheddar cheese on top turns this casserole into a gooey, irresistible delight.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the casserole.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s perfectly hot when you’re ready to bake.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onion In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. This should take about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Rice Stir in the chopped bell peppers, cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and tomato sauce. Mix well to combine.
Step 4: Season the Mixture Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the bell peppers are tender and the mixture is heated through.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and transfer the mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
Step 6: Add the Cheese Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 7: Bake Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.
Helpful Tips
Make It Ahead: Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake as directed, adding an extra 10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
Mix It Up: Feel free to add your favorite veggies, like corn or peas, for added nutrition and flavor.
Cheese Choices: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or place the entire casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works wonderfully in this recipe.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian? Yes! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use a variety of beans like black beans and kidney beans.
Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly with aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I serve with this casserole? A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish perfectly, adding a light and fresh contrast to the hearty casserole.
Embrace the joy of home cooking with this Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. It’s a deliciously comforting meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking
