Bachelor'S Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, rice, and vegetables, baked to perfection—ideal for satisfying family dinners and quick weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onions and green pepper in vegetable oil until tender.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned; drain excess fat.
- Stir in canned tomatoes, rice, salt, chili powder, basil, marjoram, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting quinoa for the rice, which adds a nutty flavor and extra protein. You can also use canned diced tomatoes with green chilies for an extra kick. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rice can be added to the mixture without the baking step, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. This dish is versatile and can be adapted easily to include your favorite veggies.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a heartier meal, serve alongside mashed potatoes or a side of steamed vegetables. This comforting dish is a crowd-pleaser and makes an excellent main course.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, heating at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bachelor'S Casserole contains roughly 636 calories, with 15g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (172% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (81% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1227mg per serving (53% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this casserole?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or a meat substitute. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times as needed to ensure everything is cooked through.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble it in the casserole dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it's going in the oven straight from the fridge.
What can I do if I don't have all the spices?
If you're missing some spices, feel free to experiment! Italian seasoning can be a good substitute for basil and marjoram. A dash of hot sauce can replace the chili powder for heat. The key is to adjust according to your taste preferences while keeping the overall flavor balanced.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).