Beef and rice casserole is a comforting dish that effortlessly brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. It’s the kind of recipe that reminds you of home, filled with hearty flavors and familiar ingredients that everyone loves. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family; the smiles and satisfied sighs said it all. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual Sunday gathering, this casserole stands tall as a reliable meal choice that pleases both kids and adults alike.

Why you’ll love this dish

This beef and rice casserole is not just any casserole. It’s a symphony of flavors that comes together in a single dish, making it both a quick and budget-friendly option. With ingredients you probably already have on hand, it offers a delicious solution for those hectic cooking days. This recipe is also highly adaptable, allowing you to switch out ingredients based on preference or availability.

"This casserole has become a staple in our house! It’s easy to make and always gets rave reviews from my kids!" – Sarah T.

Preparing Beef and Rice Casserole

Cooking this beef and rice casserole is a straightforward process that doesn’t require Michelin-starred skills. You’ll see how easily this dish can be put together in just a few steps. The combination of ground beef, rice, and ranch seasoning offers a flavor profile that’s both rich and comforting. Plus, it bakes to perfection with a bubbly, cheesy topping that you’ll look forward to every time you pull it out of the oven.

What you’ll need

To make this delightful casserole, gather the following key ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
3 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Feel free to experiment with different cheese blends or even try a spicy ranch seasoning for a little kick.

Directions to follow

Let’s dive into making this easy and satisfying dish. Here’s how:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked; be sure to drain off any excess fat.
Add in the uncooked rice, sweet corn, ranch seasoning mix, and beef broth to the skillet.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Top everything with shredded cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Optionally, garnish it with chopped green onions.

What to serve it with

To elevate your casserole experience, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or crusty bread. A bright, tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the dish wonderfully. Alternatively, steamed vegetables or roasted broccoli could provide a nice crunch and flavor contrast.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions; just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Reheating is a breeze—simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick option.

Helpful cooking tips

Brown the beef in batches if your skillet is small; overcrowding can make the meat steam instead of brown.
For extra flavor, sauté some onions and garlic with the beef before adding other ingredients.
Experiment with different cheese types for varied flavor; pepper jack brings a delightful spiciness.

Creative twists

Feel free to customize this dish! Try swapping out beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to sneak in some extra nutrients. Top it all off with crushed tortilla chips before baking for a fun twist!

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare?

Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time totals around 35-40 minutes.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but remember that brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. You might need to adjust the beef broth and simmer time accordingly.

Is it safe to reheat leftovers?

Yes, it is safe to reheat beef and rice casserole. Just ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F when reheating.

Beef and Rice Casserole

Author: majestyrecipes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Beef

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting beef and rice casserole filled with hearty flavors, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
1 can (15 oz) sweet corn, drained
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
3 cups beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat; drain off any excess fat.
Add the uncooked rice, sweet corn, ranch seasoning mix, and beef broth to the skillet.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
Top with shredded cheese.
Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let cool slightly before serving and garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, sauté some onions and garlic with the beef before adding other ingredients. Experiment with different cheese types for varied flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 560mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: casserole, beef, rice, comfort food, easy recipe