Ground Beef And Mushroom Rice Casserole
Ground Beef & Mushroom Rice Casserole is a creamy, savory dish that combines tender ground beef, delicious mushrooms, and gooey melted cheese, all baked to perfection with rice. This hearty casserole is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a fantastic way to use pantry staples, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Ground Beef & Mushroom Rice Casserole is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that assures satisfaction in every bite. It embodies comfort food with its creamy consistency and cheesy topping. It’s relatively easy to prepare, and since it all bakes in one dish, cleanup is a breeze. Furthermore, this meal is a hit with both adults and children, making it a go-to recipe for families looking for a wholesome meal. With a prep time of just 20 minutes and an overall cooking time of 30 minutes, this casserole is quick enough for any weekday dinner.
Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s gather the necessary ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in contributing to the creamy, savory flavors of the casserole.
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 8 oz sliced mushrooms
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- ¾ cup milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
Step 1: Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Season it with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. This step lays the foundation for your dish, infusing the beef with essential flavors. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. This mixture adds depth to the dish and elevates the flavor profile significantly.
Step 3: Pour in the beef broth and stir in the uncooked long-grain rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the rice to absorb the broth, adding flavor and moisture to the casserole.
Step 4: Next, add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cover it again, simmering for an additional 10 minutes. The mushrooms will become tender and release their delicious umami flavor, further enhancing the dish.
Step 5: After simmering, turn off the heat and let the mixture sit covered for 10 minutes. This resting time allows the rice to finish cooking and ensures that the flavors meld beautifully together.
Step 6: Stir in the browned ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the rice mixture. Mix well until everything is combined and the cheese melts into the casserole, creating a creamy consistency.
Step 7: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese for that gooey, cheesy topping that everyone loves.
Step 8: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Baking allows the casserole to heat through, and the cheese to bubble up, forming a divine crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so consider pre-cooking it or increasing the broth and cooking time accordingly.
Is there a way to make this casserole lighter?
To lighten the dish, you can use lean ground turkey or chicken, low-fat sour cream, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking stage and then cover it and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I serve with Ground Beef & Mushroom Rice Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables. A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole beautifully.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef & Mushroom Rice Casserole is a simple yet satisfying recipe that embodies comfort food at its finest. The creamy texture, savory flavor, and melty cheese make it a dish that everyone will enjoy—and a wonderful addition to your family’s meal rotation. Whether it’s a cold night or you’re entertaining a big group, this casserole is sure to impress while being easy on your schedule. Enjoy this hearty meal next time you need to serve up something that brings everyone together around the dinner table!
