CHEESY GROUND BEEF RICE CASSEROLE

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal, this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is perfect. Packed with flavorful ground beef, savory onions, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit at any dinner table. Don’t lose this recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 2 onions, diced
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 small can tomato sauce
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• Salt, pepper, and oregano to taste
• 1 cup frozen peas

Directions:

1. Prepare the Skillet:
   • Get a skillet, spray it with cooking spray, and heat it to high. Add in the onions and roast them for a couple of minutes until they become translucent.
2. Cook the Beef:
   • Add the garlic and ground beef to the skillet, browning the meat thoroughly.
3. Season the Mixture:
   • Once the beef is browned, turn the heat to medium. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano to taste.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • Add the peas, cooked rice, tomato sauce, one cup of cheese, and chicken broth to the skillet. Let it simmer for around three minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
   • Take the mixture and put it in a casserole container. Place it in the oven.
6. Bake the Casserole:
   • Bake at 250°F for about 15 minutes or until the mixture is heated through and starts to bubble.
7. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream and the remaining cup of cheese. Whisk them together until fully combined and smooth.
8. Top the Casserole:
   • Pour the sour cream and cheese mixture over the top of the casserole.
9. Final Bake:
   • Place the casserole back in the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted and bubbly.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

1. Garnish for Extra Flavor:
   • Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions over the casserole before serving to add a burst of color and freshness.
2. Accompaniments:
   • Serve the casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or dinner rolls also make excellent accompaniments.
3. Portion Control:
   • For a more elegant presentation, consider serving the casserole in individual ramekins or small dishes.
4. Add a Side:
   • Pair the casserole with a simple side like roasted asparagus or a cucumber and tomato salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration:
   • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the casserole has cooled completely before sealing and storing.
2. Freezing:
   • To freeze, portion the cooled casserole into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
3. Reheating:
   • When ready to eat, reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For quicker reheating, you can use the microwave; place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot.
4. Maintain Moisture:
   • When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to keep the casserole moist and prevent it from drying out. Cover the dish with foil if reheating in the oven to retain moisture.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole remains delicious whether served fresh, reheated, or enjoyed as leftovers!

Variations:

1. Mexican-Style Casserole:
   • Add a can of drained black beans, a cup of corn, and a can of diced green chilies. Season with a packet of taco seasoning. Use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Top with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream before serving.
2. Italian Twist:
   • Replace the tomato sauce with marinara sauce. Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a cup of sliced mushrooms. Use mozzarella and Parmesan cheese instead of the standard shredded cheese. Top with fresh basil leaves before serving.
3. Vegetable Medley:
   • Add a variety of diced vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Season with herbs like thyme and rosemary.
4. Creamy Mushroom and Spinach:
   • Add a can of cream of mushroom soup and a cup of fresh spinach leaves. Use a blend of Gruyere and Swiss cheese. For an extra touch, top with sautéed mushrooms before serving.
5. Spicy Cajun:
   • Season the ground beef with Cajun seasoning. Add diced andouille sausage, a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and a cup of okra. Use a blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheese. Top with sliced green onions.
6. Broccoli and Cheddar:
   • Add a cup of cooked broccoli florets and a can of condensed cheddar cheese soup. Use sharp cheddar cheese for the topping. This adds a classic broccoli and cheddar flavor to the casserole.
7. BBQ Bacon:
   • Mix in a half-cup of your favorite BBQ sauce and a cup of cooked, crumbled bacon. Use a blend of cheddar and smoked gouda cheese. Top with crispy fried onions for an extra crunch.
8. Mediterranean Flare:
   • Add a cup of crumbled feta cheese, a can of diced tomatoes, a handful of chopped Kalamata olives, and a teaspoon of oregano. Top with fresh chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
9. Taco Casserole:
   • Replace the ground beef with seasoned ground turkey. Add a packet of taco seasoning, a can of drained pinto beans, and a cup of salsa. Use a Mexican cheese blend and top with crushed tortilla chips before serving.
10. Buffalo Chicken:
    • Substitute ground beef with shredded cooked chicken. Mix in half a cup of buffalo wing sauce. Use a blend of blue cheese and mozzarella. Top with diced celery and a drizzle of ranch dressing before serving.
11. Greek-Inspired:
    • Replace ground beef with ground lamb. Add a teaspoon of ground cumin and cinnamon, a cup of diced tomatoes, and a handful of chopped mint leaves. Use feta cheese and top with tzatziki sauce before serving.
12. Ham and Cheese:
    • Substitute ground beef with diced cooked ham. Add a cup of frozen peas and a teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Use Swiss and cheddar cheese. Top with a sprinkling of breadcrumbs for added texture.

These variations offer a wide range of flavors and ingredients to customize your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole to suit different tastes and preferences!

FAQs:

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
   • Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. Make sure the brown rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole as it has a longer cooking time.
2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
   • Ensure all ingredients used are gluten-free, including the chicken broth and any seasoning mixes. You can also use gluten-free pasta instead of rice if desired.
3. Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
   • Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake as directed when ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
4. What other types of cheese can I use?
   • You can use a variety of cheeses such as mozzarella, pepper jack, Gouda, or a Mexican blend. Choose cheeses that melt well and complement the flavors of the casserole.
5. Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen peas?
   • Absolutely! Fresh vegetables like diced bell peppers, carrots, or green beans can be used. Just make sure they are cooked or steamed before adding to the casserole.
6. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
7. Can I freeze this casserole?
   • Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
8. What can I use as a substitute for sour cream?
   • You can use Greek yogurt, crème fraîche, or even mayonnaise as a substitute for sour cream in the casserole.
9. Can I add more spices or herbs?
   • Definitely! Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Adding spices like paprika, chili powder, or fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary can enhance the flavor.
10. How can I make this casserole spicier?
    • To add more heat, you can mix in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce. Pepper jack cheese is also a good option for adding a spicy kick.

These FAQs address common questions and provide helpful tips for making, storing, and customizing your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole.