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Quick Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

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A comforting and easy-to-make casserole combining savory ground beef, tender rice, mushrooms, and creamy cheese sauce baked to perfection. This quick cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is perfect for a hearty family dinner with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Beef and Seasoning

  • 1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
  • 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • ¾ cup diced onions
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 8 oz. sliced button mushrooms (washed)

Liquids and Dairy

  • 2 ½ cups beef broth
  • 10.5 oz. cream of mushroom soup
  • ½ cup milk (any kind)
  • ½ cup sour cream

Grains

  • 1 ¼ cups uncooked white long grain rice (not instant rice)

Butter and Cheese

  • 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese (divided)

Instructions

  1. Preparation Note: Review your rice package for exact liquid measurements and cooking times. You may cook rice separately if preferred, requiring 3 ¾ cups cooked rice for the casserole.
  2. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
  3. Brown Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef while seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until fully browned.
  4. Drain and Set Aside Beef: Remove excess grease, transfer the cooked beef to a plate, and cover with foil to keep warm.
  5. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add diced onions and cook for about 5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  6. Cook Rice Mixture: Add beef broth, 1 tablespoon of butter, and uncooked rice to the pot. Stir to combine well.
  7. Simmer Rice: Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
  8. Cover and Cook Rice: Cover the pot tightly and let the rice cook for 10 minutes without stirring.
  9. Add Mushrooms and Continue Cooking: Add sliced mushrooms, cover again, and cook for another 5-10 minutes, referring to rice package instructions for the exact cooking time. Avoid stirring the rice.
  10. Let Stand: Turn off heat, keep the pot covered, and let it stand for 10 minutes. This helps any rice stuck on the bottom to release.
  11. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked ground beef back to the pot along with cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir gently to combine evenly.
  12. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish, transfer the mixture into it, and top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
  13. Bake: Cover the casserole dish and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  14. Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot for a delicious and comforting meal.

Notes

  • Do not stir the rice while cooking to prevent mushy texture.
  • Use long grain white rice for best results; instant rice is not recommended.
  • You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with homemade cream sauce if preferred.
  • For a healthier version, use lean ground turkey and low-fat dairy options.
  • This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.

Find it online: https://bitezly.com/quick-cheesy-ground-beef-and-rice-casserole-recipe/