Never-Fail Beef Casserole
A hearty, savory beef casserole with rice, mushrooms, and soy sauce, baked until bubbly. Perfect for comforting family dinners and those who enjoy rich, flavorful dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then drain excess fat.
- Combine the cooked beef with uncooked Minute Rice, chopped celery, soy sauce, and sliced mushrooms in a casserole dish.
- In a separate bowl, blend the mushroom soup with water until smooth.
- Pour the soup mixture into the meat and rice mixture, mixing well.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) until bubbly, approximately 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while browning. If you're short on time, you can substitute the Minute Rice with pre-cooked rice, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. For added nutrition, feel free to include other vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots, similar to those found in the Green Pepper And Rice Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This beef casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a comforting twist, try it alongside mashed potatoes or as a filling for baked potatoes, reminiscent of hearty American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until warm, making sure to cover to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Never-Fail Beef Casserole contains roughly 566 calories, with 29g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (90% of the Daily Value), protein (59% of the Daily Value), and iron (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1908mg per serving (83% 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 casserole?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. The cooking time may remain the same, but ensure that the meat is fully cooked and browned before mixing with the other ingredients.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze the beef casserole?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and then follow the reheating instructions for best results.
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).