Beef Brown Rice
A hearty baked dish combining seasoned ground beef, rice, and cheese, perfect for comforting family dinners and flavorful weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with butter or Pam.
- Sprinkle the uncooked rice evenly over the bottom of the dish.
- Slowly pour in the beef consomme and water over the rice.
- Sprinkle chopped large onion over the rice and liquid mixture.
- Add the browned and drained ground beef on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle grated Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Serve while hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onion before adding it to the dish, which will enhance its sweetness. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer more texture, add a cup of frozen mixed vegetables or mushrooms. For a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños. This dish can also be made with brown rice for a healthier alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef Brown Rice pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness. For a heartier option, consider serving with a piece of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Brown Rice contains roughly 762 calories, with 41g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (82% of the Daily Value), calcium (64% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2108mg per serving (92% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I use if I don't have beef consomme?
If you don't have beef consomme, you can use beef broth or stock as a substitute. For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the broth. This will help mimic the depth of flavor that consomme provides.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is recommended, you can substitute with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses for a different taste. Experimenting with cheese can add new dimensions to the dish, allowing you to customize it to your liking.
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).