Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. With its savory flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this casserole is packed with delicious ingredients that will satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 can cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a casserole dish.
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, rice, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to the greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and heated through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 4-6 servings. The prep time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 20-25 minutes, bringing the total time to around 30-35 minutes.

Variations

• Vegetable Add-Ins: Incorporate your favorite vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Different Cheeses: Try using mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a different cheesy flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.
• Brown Rice or Quinoa: Substitute white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for a leaner option.
2. Is there a substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
   You can use cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using cream and mushrooms.
3. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble it the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Just increase baking time if baking from cold.
4. What type of rice should I use?
   Cooked white rice is standard, but brown rice or jasmine rice also works well.
5. Can I freeze the casserole?
   Yes, this casserole freezes well. Cover it tightly and it can last for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
6. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans and use vegetable soup instead.
7. How do I know when it’s done baking?
   The casserole should be bubbling at the edges and heated through.
8. Can I use leftover rice?
   Absolutely! This is a great way to use up leftover rice.
9. What can I serve with this casserole?
   A fresh salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely with this dish.
10. How spicy is this dish?
    This dish is not spicy but can be made spicy by adding hot sauce or pepper.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful, easy-to-make dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dinner table. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a hearty family meal. Enjoy every bite!

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