Beefy Rice Casserole
A hearty beef and rice casserole with savory mushroom and beef flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners and easy to prepare ahead of time.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef, chopped onion, and green pepper in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Grease a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Place 1 cup of rice at the bottom of the casserole.
- Layer the cooked beef mixture on top of the rice.
- Pour the beef consomme and mushroom soup (mixed with water) over all ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour or microwave covered casserole for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic or spices like paprika to the beef mixture. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, and use brown rice for added nutrition. If you have leftover vegetables, such as corn or peas, feel free to toss them into the casserole for extra color and flavor. This recipe is a great way to use up pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
This Beefy Rice Casserole is perfect for a hearty family meal. Serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for balance. For a comforting winter dinner, consider pairing it with garlic bread or a warm biscuit. This dish also works well for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. It pairs beautifully with Mary'S Award Winning Chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place in the microwave until heated through, about 2-3 minutes, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beefy Rice Casserole contains roughly 620 calories, with 27g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value), protein (55% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 905mg per serving (39% 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 instant rice instead of regular rice?
Yes, you can use instant rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Instant rice typically cooks much faster, so you might want to shorten the baking time to about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the casserole to ensure it doesn't dry out.
What can I add to make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper into the beef mixture. You could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before baking. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference for a personalized kick.
Can I freeze the Beefy Rice Casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until heated through.
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).