Gumbo Casserole
A hearty, flavorful casserole combining ground beef, rice, and tomato juice, topped with cheese and paprika—perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Mix cooked rice, tomato juice, chopped pepper, chili powder, drained peas, and salt; add to the browned beef and onion.
- Transfer mixture to a casserole dish and bake for 30 minutes at 300°F.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle cheese and paprika on top, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add smoked sausage for a traditional gumbo twist. If you're out of tomato juice, crushed tomatoes or a blend of diced tomatoes and broth can work well. Adjust the chili powder to your spice preference, and feel free to include additional vegetables like bell peppers or okra.
Serving Suggestions
This gumbo casserole pairs beautifully with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad. Consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions for added flavor. For a heartier meal, you might enjoy it alongside Mam-Mas' Texas Beef Casserole, which complements this dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any 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 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gumbo Casserole contains roughly 1068 calories, with 38g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (76% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (49% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2195mg 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble all the ingredients in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for the rice?
If you're looking to replace the rice, quinoa or cauliflower rice are great alternatives. Both provide a similar texture while adding their own unique flavor. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time if using cauliflower rice, as it cooks faster than traditional rice.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, this gumbo casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F until heated through, or reheat directly from frozen at a lower temperature.
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).