Beef and Rice Casserole

Delicious Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

This Beef and Rice Casserole recipe is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners. Combining the rich flavors of ground meat with the wholesomeness of rice, vegetables, and cheese, this casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. It's an easy-to-make recipe that requires simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal.

History

The concept of combining meat, rice, and vegetables in a single dish dates back centuries and spans multiple cultures. Casseroles, as we know them today, became popular in the United States in the 1950s, thanks to their convenience and the ease of using canned and frozen foods. This Beef and Rice Casserole is a modern take on those mid-century recipes, incorporating fresh and frozen ingredients for a more contemporary and flavorful twist.

Ingredients

1 cup of Uncle Ben's Original Converted Brand rice
1 lb (454 g) of ground meat
1 can of undrained chopped tomatoes
0.5 bag of cooked frozen vegetable mix
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
2 tsp of garlic powder
8 oz (227 g) of sour cream
salt and pepper to taste

How to prepare

Cook the rice following the instructions on the package.
While the rice is cooking, season the ground meat with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Brown the ground meat in a large non-stick skillet.
Add the vegetables, tomatoes, and sour cream to the ground beef and cook until just heated through.
Combine the cooked rice with the ground beef mixture and mix thoroughly. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with cheese.
Place the casserole dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) and bake until warmed through and the cheese melts, approximately 20 minutes. Serve warm.

Variations

For a spicier version, add chili powder or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture.
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add a layer of cooked quinoa instead of rice for a different texture and added protein.

Notes

Can use any kind of cheese you prefer. Recommended: Monterey jack, cheddar or mozzarella.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results for your Beef and Rice Casserole, consider the following tips:

- Use lean ground meat to reduce excess fat without sacrificing flavor.

- Season the meat well while browning to build a flavor base.

- Cook the rice al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven, preventing it from becoming mushy.

- Feel free to customize the vegetable mix according to preference or seasonality.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own but can be served with a side salad for added freshness or some crusty bread to soak up the flavors.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meat properly is key to developing deep flavors in the casserole. Also, baking the casserole until just bubbly and the cheese is melted ensures that all the flavors meld together without drying out the ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

Brown rice or quinoa can replace white rice for added fiber.

- Any mix of vegetables can be used, fresh or frozen, depending on availability and preference.

- Greek yogurt can substitute sour cream for a tangier, lower-fat option.

Make Ahead Tips

Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate. Increase the baking time by 10-15 minutes if baking from cold. Alternatively, the cooked meat mixture can be frozen for up to 3 months, thawed overnight, and combined with freshly cooked rice before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the casserole in the baking dish for a rustic, family-style presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a fruity red pairs well with the rich flavors of the casserole. For non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or lemon to cleanse the palate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until thoroughly warmed. Add a splash of water or broth if the casserole seems dry upon reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this Beef and Rice Casserole contains approximately 400 calories, making it a hearty meal option. The balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates ensures that it is both satisfying and nutritious.

Carbohydrates

This Beef and Rice Casserole provides a good balance of nutrients, including carbohydrates. A serving contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the rice and vegetables. This provides energy and supports bodily functions, making it a fulfilling part of a balanced diet.

Fats

The dish contains about 20 grams of fat per serving, with a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats. The cheese and ground meat are the primary sources of fat in this recipe. Opting for lean ground meat and reduced-fat cheese can lower the fat content without compromising the taste.

Proteins

Protein is an essential component of this casserole, with each serving offering around 25 grams. The ground meat and cheese contribute the most to the protein content, supporting muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This casserole is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A from the vegetables, calcium from the cheese, and iron from the ground meat. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining health and well-being.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include dairy (cheese, sour cream) and gluten (depending on the brand of rice used). Always check labels if you're cooking for someone with specific food allergies.

Summary

Overall, this Beef and Rice Casserole is a nutritious and balanced meal, offering a good mix of macronutrients, vitamins, and minerals. It's a comforting dish that can fit into a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

This Beef and Rice Casserole is a versatile, comforting dish that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal. With options for customization and make-ahead preparation, it's a perfect recipe for any home cook looking to feed a family or enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first saw this recipe for Beef and Rice Casserole. It was a cold winter afternoon and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed and stained with years of use, but the recipes inside were like hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

As I turned the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Beef and Rice Casserole. The ingredients were simple and the instructions straightforward, but there was something about it that caught my eye. Perhaps it was the warm spices like cumin and paprika, or the comforting combination of beef and rice. Whatever it was, I knew I had to give it a try.

I set to work gathering the ingredients, some of which I already had in my pantry and others I had to pick up from the store. As I chopped onions and minced garlic, I thought back to all the recipes I had learned over the years – from my mother, my aunts, and even friends who had shared their family favorites with me.

Once everything was prepped, I began to brown the ground beef in a skillet, savoring the rich aroma that filled the kitchen. I added in the onions and garlic, letting them soften and release their flavors before stirring in the spices. The scent of cumin and paprika wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Next, I added in the rice and broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. I covered the skillet and let it cook, allowing the flavors to meld together and the rice to absorb the liquid. As the casserole bubbled away on the stove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction and contentment.

After about 20 minutes, I removed the lid and gave the casserole a stir. The rice was tender and the beef was cooked through, creating a hearty and comforting dish that was perfect for a cold winter evening. I scooped some onto a plate and took a bite, savoring the warm and savory flavors that danced on my tongue.

As I enjoyed my first taste of the Beef and Rice Casserole, I couldn't help but think about all the recipes I had learned over the years. Each one had its own story, its own origins, and its own special place in my heart. And now, this recipe for Beef and Rice Casserole had earned its spot among my favorites.

I knew that I would continue to make this dish for years to come, perhaps passing it down to my own grandchildren one day. And as I sat at the table, surrounded by the aroma of spices and the warmth of good food, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the culinary journey that had brought me to this moment.

In that moment, I realized that cooking wasn't just about following a recipe – it was about creating memories, sharing traditions, and connecting with loved ones through the simple act of sharing a meal. And as I licked my lips and reached for a second helping of Beef and Rice Casserole, I knew that this dish would always hold a special place in my heart.