Pizza Rice Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole combining savory ground beef, tomato sauce, and creamy cottage cheese layered with rice and cheese, perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and onion.
- Add tomato sauce, garlic salt, sugar, pepper, oregano, and parsley flakes. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Cook rice if not using leftover rice.
- Combine cooked rice with cottage cheese, 1/4 teaspoon oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning.
- Spread half of the rice mixture in a buttered 2-quart casserole dish.
- Top with half of the meat-tomato sauce.
- Repeat layers with remaining rice mixture and meat sauce, ending with tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle with 1/2 cup shredded cheese and Parmesan cheese as desired.
- Bake at 325°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian sausage instead of ground beef or adding vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms. If you prefer a creamier texture, mix in some ricotta cheese with the cottage cheese. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked rice to speed up the preparation. Always taste the sauce before layering to adjust seasoning to your liking.
Serving Suggestions
This Pizza Rice Casserole pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an extra kick, serve with crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil. It also makes for a great potluck dish or family gathering, just like other hearty American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place individual servings in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. For a crispy top, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pizza Rice Casserole contains roughly 447 calories, with 20g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (71% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and protein (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 960mg per serving (42% 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 cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the cottage cheese with ricotta or even mozzarella for a different flavor and texture. If you prefer a sharper taste, try using cheddar or a blend of your favorites. Just ensure the cheese you use melts well to create that delicious, gooey topping.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach. You can also use lentils or beans for added protein. Adjust the seasonings to your liking, and you'll have a hearty, meat-free casserole that everyone will enjoy!
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Layer everything in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as instructed. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights!
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).