Fix And Forget Dinner
A hearty, easy-to-make casserole combining ground beef, rice, mixed vegetables, and savory soups, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients and turn into a buttered casserole.
- Cover and bake at 300°F for 3 hours.
- Serve with flaky garlic rounds.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier dish, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of ground chuck. You can also substitute brown rice for long grain rice for added nutrition, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you want extra flavor, add some garlic or onion powder to the mix. This recipe can also be adapted to incorporate any leftover vegetables you have on hand, making it a versatile choice.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with flaky garlic rounds for a complete meal. Consider serving a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli on the side for added color and nutrients. For a comforting twist, you could also serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fix And Forget Dinner contains roughly 501 calories, with 20g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (113% of the Daily Value), protein (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1261mg per serving (55% 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 a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for the ground chuck. Just be mindful that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose. Each option will provide a different flavor profile, so choose according to your preference.
What can I use instead of cream of celery soup?
If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup as a substitute. Alternatively, you can make a homemade version by mixing heavy cream with sautéed celery and onions, then thickening it with a roux for a fresh take.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can mix all the ingredients and assemble the casserole a day ahead. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and allow it to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
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).