Rice Dressing(Rita'S Foolproof Recipe)
A hearty rice dressing with savory ground meats, fresh herbs, and creamy soups, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings. Flavorful, filling, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix ground beef and ground pork together with the raw rice.
- Add chopped green onion tops, bell pepper, celery, onions, minced parsley, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Place the mixture in a heavy casserole dish.
- Mix the onion soup and cream of mushroom soup together and pour over the meat mixture.
- Cover with a tight-fitting lid and bake at 325°F (163°C) for 70 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing the vegetables before mixing them into the meat and rice. You can substitute the ground beef and pork with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use plant-based meat alternatives and vegetable broth instead of soup. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, and feel free to add spices like garlic powder or thyme for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rice dressing as a hearty main dish, pairing it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for balance. It also goes well with crusty bread or rolls to soak up the delicious flavors. For a family-friendly option, consider serving alongside a dish like Aunt Mae's Casserole for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rice dressing in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Dressing(Rita'S Foolproof Recipe) contains roughly 780 calories, with 45g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (208% of the Daily Value), iron (201% of the Daily Value), and potassium (100% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2216mg per serving (96% 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 rice dressing ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, or adjust the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of onion soup?
If you don't have onion soup, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 cup of beef or vegetable broth with a few tablespoons of dried onion flakes and a dash of soy sauce. This will mimic the flavors of onion soup and work well in this recipe.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This rice dressing freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.
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).