It'S Wonderful
A hearty casserole combining savory ground beef, mushrooms, and creamy soups with wild rice, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat and liquid.
- Cook the wild rice according to package instructions.
- Mix the cooked rice, browned meat, chopped mushrooms and liquid, cream of mushroom soup, and cream of chicken soup together in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9 x 12-inch baking pan.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Sprinkle the top with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding garlic or your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary. If you prefer a lighter option, swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use brown rice instead of wild rice for a healthier alternative. To enhance the dish, fold in some frozen peas or corn before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side salad for a refreshing contrast. It also pairs well with crusty bread or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving with a light dessert, such as fruit salad. This comforting casserole makes a great main dish for family gatherings or potlucks, complementing recipes like Microwave Chicken Green Chili Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming at 350°F until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, ensuring they’re heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of It'S Wonderful contains roughly 871 calories, with 34g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (132% of the Daily Value), protein (68% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 991mg per serving (43% 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 prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time. Assemble everything in the baking pan, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you're looking for an alternative to cream of mushroom soup, you can use homemade cream sauce or even a can of cream of celery soup. For a healthier option, consider making a blend of pureed mushrooms and Greek yogurt for a creamy texture without the canned soup.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake 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).