This Beef and Rice Casserole is a savory, comforting dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty meal. Made with seasoned ground beef, fluffy white rice, and creamy mushroom soup, this casserole is topped with melted cheddar cheese for a satisfying finish. Whether you're feeding the family or need a dish to bring to a potluck, this casserole is sure to please!
This Beef and Rice Casserole is a savory, comforting dish that's perfect for any night of the week. With seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and just the right amount of cheese, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy evenings.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides a hearty, protein-packed base for the casserole.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Adds fluffiness and absorbs all the delicious flavors in the dish.
- 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Montreal steak seasoning: Seasons the beef and rice with a robust, savory flavor.
- 4 ounces sliced mushrooms: Brings an earthy flavor and texture to the casserole.
- 1 cup diced celery: Adds a bit of crunch and freshness.
- 2 cups beef broth: Keeps the rice moist and flavorful as it cooks.
- 10.5 ounce can cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and binds the ingredients together.
- ½ cup sour cream: Gives the dish a rich, tangy flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top, creating a cheesy, golden finish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a casserole dish by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray, and set it aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium-high heat until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease.
- Step 3:
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the meat and onions, allowing the rice to absorb some of the flavors.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the beef broth, sliced mushrooms, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Step 5:
- Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet and stir until it’s evenly distributed. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Step 6:
- Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 7:
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 8:
- Once the casserole is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest lightly covered with aluminum foil for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve this Beef and Rice Casserole hot, straight from the oven, with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
- This casserole also freezes well. To freeze, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Helpful Notes
- For added flavor, consider using sharp cheddar cheese or adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top before serving.
- If you prefer a bit of heat, try mixing in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes with the beef mixture.
- You can easily customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten: "Always use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor—it makes a big difference in casseroles like this."
- Chef Alton Brown: "To ensure your rice cooks evenly, make sure it's well coated with the beef and broth mixture before baking."
- Chef Jamie Oliver: "Don’t be afraid to play around with herbs—adding fresh thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor of your casserole."