Introduction
Welcome to your new favorite comfort food extravaganza! This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a delightful, one-dish wonder that combines hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknight dinners or weekend family gatherings, this dish will leave everyone at the table feeling warm and satisfied. Imagine digging into a steaming bowl of creamy rice, succulent ground beef, and gooey cheddar cheese—all baked to golden perfection. Are you ready to bring this mouthwatering meal into your kitchen?
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 can (16 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Be sure to drain any excess fat for a cleaner finish.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the browned beef. Stir until everything is beautifully combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, mix together the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices), cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and the frozen mixed vegetables until well incorporated.
- Gently fold the seasoned ground beef into the rice mixture, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Pour this scrumptious mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven to bake for 35 minutes.
- After 35 minutes, carefully remove the foil and give the casserole a good stir. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top.
- Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden topping.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving, allowing those flavors to settle beautifully.
Notes or Tips
This casserole is incredibly versatile! Feel free to substitute the mixed vegetables with whatever you have on hand, such as corn or green beans. For an extra kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Leftovers, if there are any, reheat wonderfully and make for a perfect lunch the next day!
Cooking Techniques
Browning the ground beef properly is key to developing deep flavors. Make sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter. Mixing the raw rice with liquid ingredients before baking allows the rice to absorb all those delicious flavors while cooking evenly. Covering the casserole during the first part of baking helps steam the dish, ensuring the rice cooks just right.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point before baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just increase the baking time when you’re ready to cook.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to round out your meal.
Conclusion
There you have it—a comforting, cheesy, and utterly satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is not just a recipe; it’s a wonderful way to gather everyone around the table for heartwarming moments. So grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking. Happy eating!