Easy Ground Meat Casserole
A comforting ground meat casserole featuring tender beef, savory mushroom soup, and rice, baked to perfection—perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook ground beef and chopped onion until done; drain.
- Spray casserole dish with cooking spray (Pam).
- Combine cooked meat and onion with cream of mushroom soup, water, raw rice, and soy sauce.
- Pour mixture into casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade version for a healthier option. Adding some frozen mixed vegetables can enhance the dish without altering its essence. Adjust the soy sauce to taste for a more savory profile. This Easy Ground Meat Casserole resembles comforting American recipes, making it a family favorite.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a fun twist, top it with shredded cheese before the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish similar to Cheesy Meatball Patties.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the microwave or oven until heated through. If using a microwave, cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s completely cooled before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Ground Meat Casserole contains roughly 424 calories, with 10g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2691mg per serving (117% 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 be aware that it will require a longer cooking time. Pre-cook the brown rice before mixing it into the casserole to ensure it cooks through during baking.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge when you put it in the oven.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To give the casserole a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the mixture before baking. This will elevate the flavor and add a delightful heat to the dish.
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).