Poor Boy Supper
A comforting casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and savory rice, perfect for a hearty family dinner with rich, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place ground beef in a baking dish.
- Add rice on top of the beef.
- Sprinkle dry onion soup mix over the rice.
- Mix cream of mushroom soup with water until smooth.
- Pour the soup mixture over the rice and beef.
- Bake at 350°F for 50 to 60 minutes or until rice is cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating sautéed onions or bell peppers with the ground beef. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery for a different taste. If you prefer a heartier dish, feel free to mix in some frozen mixed vegetables before baking. Adjust the water amount based on your rice type; long grain usually needs more liquid.
Serving Suggestions
This Poor Boy Supper pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated cheese on top before serving for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poor Boy Supper contains roughly 330 calories, with 19g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 509mg per serving (22% 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 brown rice instead of long cooking rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and water content. Brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time, so be sure to check the package instructions for proper ratios.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or use cooked lentils for a vegetarian version. Additionally, swap the cream of mushroom soup with a homemade or store-bought vegetable cream soup to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time by assembling all the ingredients and covering them in the baking dish. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you start from cold.
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).