Beef And Rice Casserole
A hearty beef and rice casserole packed with savory flavors from ground beef, tomatoes, and chili spices. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it combines tender rice and beans baked to perfection, offering a filling and satisfying meal with a touch of spice and rich textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute ground beef until browned; drain excess fat.
- Add chopped bell pepper and onion; cook until vegetables are tender.
- Stir in canned tomatoes, water, salt, and chili powder; simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in rice and kidney beans.
- Pour mixture into a baking dish, cover, and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Stir the casserole, then bake a little longer until rice is fully cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using olive oil or a blend of oils instead of regular cooking oil. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or substitute the chili powder with your favorite hot spice blend. You can use cooked brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier option. Leftover protein can be used in this dish, making it versatile and a great way to utilize leftover beef from other meals.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beef And Rice Casserole with a side of fresh salad or tortilla chips for crunch. You can also pair it with sour cream or guacamole for added richness. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it also complements other Mexican recipes, making it a great main course for a themed dinner night.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power, checking every minute until hot. This makes for a quick meal the next day.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef And Rice Casserole contains roughly 535 calories, with 22g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1894mg per serving (82% 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it requires a longer cooking time. You might need to increase the liquid and baking time to ensure the rice is fully cooked. Adjust the water to about 1 3/4 cups and bake until the rice is tender, which could take an extra 15-20 minutes.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken are excellent substitutes if you're looking for a leaner option. For a vegetarian version, you can use lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Just ensure to adjust the seasoning accordingly for whichever substitute you choose to keep the flavors balanced.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or when hosting guests.
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).