Beef Rice Bake
A hearty beef and rice casserole with savory flavors, perfect for family dinners. Combines ground beef, rice, vegetables, and comforting chicken rice soup for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet.
- Add the chicken rice soup, water, diced celery, and green pepper to the browned beef.
- Heat the mixture until boiling.
- Pour the mixture into a Pam-sprayed casserole dish.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 1 hour.
- Serve with bran muffins and salad or muffins of your choice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding onion and garlic when browning the beef. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in a cup of shredded cheese before baking. Using Chicken Creole Soup instead of chicken rice soup can add a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef Rice Bake pairs wonderfully with a side of green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the dish's richness. For a comforting touch, serve with bran muffins or your favorite type of muffins. A drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate the flavor for those who enjoy some heat.
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, heating in 1-minute increments until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Rice Bake contains roughly 1132 calories, with 49g protein, 159g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (99% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2175mg per serving (95% 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 substitute brown rice for white rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so increase the water to about 3 cups and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative like crumbled tempeh or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of water and opt for vegetable soup instead of chicken soup for a delicious plant-based option.
Can I freeze the Beef Rice Bake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked Beef Rice Bake before baking it. Just assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you're ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake as directed. This makes for a great make-ahead meal.
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).