Looking for a comforting dish that brings the family together? This ground beef casserole recipe is your answer! Bursting with flavor and easy to make, it combines hearty ground beef with creamy cheese and a medley of vegetables, all baked to perfection. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a satisfying weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 can cream of mushroom soup
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups cooked rice
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/6 of the casserole) contains approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 15g fat, 30g carbohydrates, and 3g fiber.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
3. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Stir in mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with cream of mushroom soup.
6. Add cooked rice, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
7. Mix until well combined.
8. Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
9. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter protein. Additionally, you can use any combination of vegetables based on your preference or what you have available.
Serving and Pairings
This ground beef casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the beef; it can become tough.
- Use a greased casserole dish to prevent sticking.
- Be careful not to add too much liquid; it can make the casserole soggy.
- Ensure the rice is cooked before mixing it in.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking to set.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different cheese varieties for unique flavors.
- Adding spices such as paprika or cayenne can enhance the flavor.
- For a crunch, top with breadcrumbs before baking.
- Use leftover meat or veggies to reduce waste.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake it.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or any cheese you prefer for a different flavor.
Is this casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure the cream of mushroom soup and any other ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly browned.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! You can add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli, for added nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion
This ground beef casserole recipe is not only simple to make but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it’s a dish that delights with every bite. Try it today and enjoy the comforting warmth it brings to your table!
Ground Beef Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cups mixed vegetables
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with cream of mushroom soup.
- Add cooked rice, milk, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
