Mom'S Easy Casserole
A hearty and easy-to-make casserole combining seasoned ground beef, rice, cheese, and tomatoes, perfect for busy weeknights and satisfying for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Layer the browned ground beef, instant rice, and sliced cheese sprinkled with garlic powder in a greased casserole dish until all ingredients are used.
- Pour the diced or crushed canned tomatoes over the layered ingredients.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. You can also substitute the sliced cheese with shredded cheese for a more even melt. If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. Using St. Paul'S Chili Sauce can enhance the flavor further.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or garlic bread for a hearty side. Consider topping it with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor and color.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Easy Casserole contains roughly 921 calories, with 24g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), protein (48% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1618mg per serving (70% 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 assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to 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 use instead of instant rice?
You can use regular long-grain rice, but be sure to pre-cook it according to package instructions before layering it in the casserole. This will ensure it cooks properly while baking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Certainly! You can replace the ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. Additionally, use a plant-based cheese to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
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).