Beef and rice casserole is a classic comfort dish that combines hearty ingredients into one satisfying meal. A casserole, in its simplest form, is a dish that’s baked in the oven and typically consists of a protein, starch, vegetables, and a creamy or cheesy element. This type of dish has gained popularity over the years for its versatility and ease of preparation, making it a staple in many households.

One of the key benefits of a beef and rice casserole is its simplicity. With just a few common ingredients and minimal preparation, it can be assembled and baked in under an hour. It’s also affordable, using ground beef, rice, and pantry staples, making it accessible for budget-conscious cooks. The flavor is rich and satisfying, combining savory beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheese.

This dish is incredibly versatile, suitable for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep. It can be made ahead, stored, and reheated with ease, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, it can be easily customized by adding vegetables or substituting ingredients to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients Breakdown

1. Ground Beef (85% Lean): Choosing lean ground beef for this casserole is important to reduce excess grease, ensuring the dish isn’t overly oily. The 85% lean option offers a good balance of flavor and juiciness without being too fatty, contributing to the casserole’s hearty base.
2. Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, Italian seasoning adds a Mediterranean flair to this otherwise traditional dish. Its aromatic qualities elevate the flavor profile of the beef and rice, making the casserole more dynamic and flavorful.
3. Onions and Garlic: These two ingredients are fundamental for building flavor. The sautéed onions provide sweetness and depth, while garlic adds a sharp, savory note, infusing the dish with aromatic richness that complements the beef perfectly.
4. Long-Grain White Rice: Long-grain rice is ideal for casseroles because it remains firm after cooking and doesn’t turn mushy. Its light and fluffy texture absorbs the flavors of the beef broth and other ingredients, making it a perfect base for the dish.
5. Mushrooms: Adding sliced button mushrooms introduces an earthy flavor and chewy texture to the casserole. Mushrooms also contribute a hearty, almost meaty bite, making the dish even more satisfying.
6. Beef Broth: This ingredient not only enhances the overall flavor of the casserole, but it also helps to cook the rice evenly and keep the dish moist.
7. Cream of Mushroom Soup: The cream of mushroom soup acts as a creamy, savory base for the casserole, binding the ingredients together and adding a comforting richness to each bite.
8. Cheddar Cheese and Sour Cream: Cheddar cheese provides a sharp, melty topping that enhances the dish’s overall creaminess. Sour cream adds a slight tang, balancing the richness of the cheese and mushroom soup, giving the casserole a creamy and slightly zesty finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions & Cooking Tips

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheating the Oven and Browning the Beef: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures that the casserole will bake evenly and develop a golden, cheesy topping. Next, brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Browning is crucial because it adds depth and richness to the beef through the Maillard reaction, which caramelizes the natural sugars and proteins in the meat. This process also helps to render excess fat, which should be drained to prevent a greasy casserole.
2. Cooking Onions and Garlic: After draining the beef, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same pot. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they become translucent and soft. Onions release their natural sweetness when cooked, which enhances the flavor of the casserole. After the onions have softened, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Garlic burns quickly, so be careful to avoid overcooking it. Together, onions and garlic create an aromatic base that boosts the flavor of the entire dish.
3. Cooking the Rice in Beef Broth: Once the aromatics are ready, add the beef broth, the remaining tablespoon of butter, and uncooked long-grain rice to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Cooking the rice in beef broth infuses it with savory flavors, making it much more flavorful than water-cooked rice. Ensure you don’t stir the rice while it’s simmering—this allows it to cook evenly and absorb the liquid without becoming mushy.
4. Layering Mushrooms for Best Texture: After the rice has partially cooked, layer the sliced mushrooms on top of the rice without stirring them in. This technique ensures the mushrooms maintain their structure and release moisture gradually, which prevents the rice from becoming soggy. Cover the pot again and cook for another 5-10 minutes, until the rice is tender and the mushrooms are cooked through.
5. Mixing Everything Together: Once the rice and mushrooms are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes. This rest time allows the flavors to meld and ensures the rice is fully cooked. Stir in the cooked beef, cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese. The soup and dairy ingredients create a creamy, cohesive texture that binds the casserole together, while the cheese adds richness and flavor.
6. Baking the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 casserole dish and top it with the remaining cheddar cheese. Cover the dish with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. To achieve a golden, crispy cheese top, uncover the casserole for the last 5 minutes of baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

1. Not Draining Excess Grease: After browning the ground beef, it’s important to drain any excess grease. Failing to do so can result in an overly greasy casserole, which will affect both the texture and flavor of the final dish. To avoid this, use a slotted spoon to remove the beef from the pot, leaving behind any unwanted fat. Alternatively, you can drain the beef in a colander lined with paper towels.
2. Undercooking Rice: The rice in this casserole is a key component, so it’s important to cook it correctly. If the rice is undercooked, it will be hard and unpleasant to eat. Be sure to simmer the rice in the broth for at least 10 minutes and let it rest covered after cooking to ensure it absorbs enough liquid. If necessary, you can add a little more broth and cook it for a few extra minutes.
3. Overbaking the Casserole: Overbaking the casserole can lead to dry, overcooked rice and a tough cheese topping. To avoid this, bake the casserole for the recommended 20 minutes and monitor it during the final few minutes. If the cheese has melted and the casserole is bubbling, it’s ready to be removed from the oven. Keep the foil on for most of the baking time to prevent the top from drying out.
4. Incorrect Cheese Distribution: Achieving the perfect cheesy top is essential for a satisfying casserole. Spread the cheese evenly over the surface, ensuring no pockets of the casserole are left uncovered. Uneven cheese distribution can result in some bites being too cheesy while others lack flavor. For the best results, use half the cheese in the casserole mix and the other half as a melted topping for a rich, gooey finish.

Nutritional Information and Variations

Nutritional Breakdown 

A typical serving of beef and rice casserole provides a hearty amount of calories, protein, carbs, and fats. On average, one serving (1/8 of the recipe) contains approximately:

• Calories: 400-500 calories
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
• Fats: 20-25 grams

The calorie content largely depends on the amount of cheese, sour cream, and cream of mushroom soup used, as well as the fat content in the ground beef. To make the dish healthier, several substitutions can be made. Opting for low-fat cheese and sour cream can reduce the overall fat content while keeping the rich, creamy texture intact. Using leaner ground beef (93% lean or higher) or ground turkey significantly cuts down on saturated fat, making the dish lighter and healthier. Additionally, you can replace the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version using low-fat milk and fresh mushrooms to reduce preservatives and sodium.

Recipe Variations 

1. Vegetable Additions: To boost the nutritional content, you can easily incorporate more vegetables into the casserole. Try adding peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added vitamins, fiber, and color. These vegetables will complement the savory flavors of the beef and mushrooms while making the dish more nutrient-dense.
2. Using Brown Rice: If you prefer a healthier grain, substitute the white rice with brown rice. Brown rice is higher in fiber and nutrients, making it a better option for those seeking more wholesome carbohydrates. However, note that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you’ll need to increase the simmering time by about 15-20 minutes to ensure it becomes tender.
3. Cheese Alternatives: While cheddar cheese gives this casserole its classic flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses to change the taste profile. Try mozzarella for a milder, creamier finish, or gouda for a slightly smoky flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, pepper jack is a great option.
4. Substituting Ground Beef: If you’re looking to reduce the red meat content or switch things up, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Both options are leaner and offer a lighter taste while maintaining the same protein content. This simple swap can make the casserole a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.

Tips for Making Ahead and Storing

1. Freezing Tips:
   To freeze the casserole before cooking, assemble the ingredients, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing after baking, allow the dish to cool fully before wrapping it in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Label with the date and store for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
2. Storing Leftovers:
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the casserole is fully cooled before refrigerating to prevent moisture buildup.
3. Reheating Instructions:
   To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes. For smaller portions, use a microwave-safe dish and reheat in the microwave on medium heat until heated through, stirring halfway.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply prepare all the ingredients as directed, transfer them to the casserole dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before putting it in the oven.
2. Can I freeze Beef and Rice Casserole?
   Absolutely. Beef and rice casserole freezes well, whether before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. If freezing after baking, let the casserole cool completely, then cover and freeze.
3. How do I store leftovers?
   Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the casserole is fully cooled before placing it in the fridge to avoid excess moisture buildup.
4. Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
   Yes, you can use homemade cream of mushroom soup or substitute it with cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a slightly different flavor profile.
5. How can I adjust this recipe for a gluten-free diet?
   Use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure that your beef broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Swap regular rice with gluten-free rice options like wild rice if desired.

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef and rice casserole is the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and family-friendliness, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Its simple preparation means you can have a hearty, delicious meal on the table in under an hour, with minimal cleanup. The rich flavors of savory ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and gooey melted cheese come together for a comforting dish that everyone will love.

What’s great about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily make it your own by adding vegetables like peas or bell peppers, experimenting with different cheeses, or even substituting the ground beef with leaner proteins like turkey or chicken. Whether you’re looking for a classic comfort food dish or something customizable to fit your family’s preferences, this casserole delivers. Plus, it’s great for meal prepping—make it ahead, freeze it, or enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this beef and rice casserole is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll come back to again and again. So don’t be afraid to get creative and make it uniquely yours!

Beef and Rice Casserole

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• Author: Christine

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Description

This hearty Beef and Rice Casserole is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for feeding the whole family. Made with ground beef, tender rice, savory mushrooms, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s an easy one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. The recipe is simple to follow, requires minimal prep, and is ready in about an hour, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or when you need a dish that can please a crowd. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or cheeses for a personal touch!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
• 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 Tbsp butter, divided
• 3/4 cup onions, diced
• 1 Tbsp garlic, minced
• 2 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1 1/4 cups uncooked long grain white rice
• 8 oz sliced button mushrooms
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, divided

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drain the excess grease and set the beef aside.
3. In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onions and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef broth, remaining butter, and uncooked rice to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Place the sliced mushrooms on top of the rice (do not stir), cover, and cook for another 5-10 minutes, until the rice is tender.
6. Remove the pot from heat and let it stand, covered, for 10 minutes.
7. Stir in the cooked beef, cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese.
8. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.
9. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve and enjoy your delicious homemade Beef and Rice Casserole!

Notes

• For a Healthier Option: Use lean ground beef (93% lean or higher), low-fat cheese, and sour cream to reduce the fat content without compromising flavor. You can also substitute white rice with brown rice, but remember to adjust the cooking time.
• Make It Your Own: This casserole is highly customizable. Add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrients, or swap cheddar cheese with mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor twist. Ground turkey or chicken can also be used as a leaner alternative to beef.
• Make-Ahead & Storage Tips: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and bake it when ready. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.