Here’s a simple, hearty, and delicious Beef and Rice Casserole recipe—perfect for a family dinner or meal prep:
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 ½ cups beef broth (or water + bouillon)
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried herbs
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Beef
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until soft.
- Add ground beef, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Cook until beef is browned and fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Combine Ingredients
- In a large bowl, mix together:
- Cooked beef and onions
- Uncooked rice
- Beef broth
- Mixed vegetables
- Diced tomatoes (optional)
- Italian seasoning
4. Bake the Casserole
- Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes (rice should be tender and liquid absorbed).
5. Add Cheese
- Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 5–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions.
💡 Tips & Variations
- Make it creamy: Stir in ½ cup sour cream or cream of mushroom soup before baking.
- Extra flavor: Add bell peppers or mushrooms.
- One-pot version: Brown the beef and onions, add rice and broth, simmer for 20–25 minutes on stovetop, then bake for cheese topping.
If you want, I can make a quick “Beef and Rice Casserole Cheat Sheet” showing ingredients, steps, and cooking times in a single easy-to-read graphic—great for the kitchen.
Do you want me to make that?
