Ground Beef Casserole with Brown Rice

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and Hearty: This casserole is a one-dish meal packed with protein and fiber, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
• Simple Ingredients: With just a few pantry staples and frozen peas, you can make a delicious meal without much effort.
• Customizable: The recipe is perfect for adding your favorite veggies or swapping ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.
• Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes beautifully, so you can make it ahead of time and enjoy it later.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 3 cups cooked brown rice
• 2 cups frozen peas
• 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese blend, or to taste

directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   In a large skillet, heat the ground beef over medium-high heat. Cook and stir the beef until it is browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain the grease and transfer the beef to a large mixing bowl.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   To the bowl with the ground beef, add the cooked brown rice, frozen peas, condensed cream of celery soup, milk, soy sauce, and minced garlic. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Transfer to a Baking Dish:
   Transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly in the dish.
5. Top with Cheese:
   Sprinkle the shredded Cheddar-Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
6. Bake the Casserole:
   Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
7. Serve:
   Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a stand-alone meal or with a side salad!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Use Different Cheese: Switch up the cheese blend for a different taste; sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack are great alternatives.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
• Swap the Meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian crumbles for a different twist.

storage/reheating

• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or bake the entire casserole at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until heated through.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Freeze it without the cheese or top it with cheese before freezing. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Yes, you can substitute white rice for brown rice, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different. Brown rice offers more fiber and a chewier texture.

Can I use another type of cream soup?

Yes! If you don’t have cream of celery, you can use cream of mushroom, cream of chicken, or any other flavor you prefer.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, green beans, or carrots to the casserole. Just make sure they are pre-cooked or frozen for convenience.

How do I make this casserole gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your cream soup is labeled gluten-free.

Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?

Yes, you can double the recipe. Simply bake it in a larger dish, and increase the baking time as needed, checking for bubbling and the melted cheese on top.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen peas?

Yes, fresh peas work just as well. You can add them at the same time as you would frozen peas.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it before baking. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake it in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes very well. You can freeze it either before or after baking. Make sure to cover it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

How can I make this casserole less creamy?

To make the casserole less creamy, reduce the amount of soup or replace some of it with vegetable broth or low-fat yogurt.

What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole is hearty on its own but pairs well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a side of garlic bread.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Casserole with Brown Rice is a perfect weeknight meal that is quick to prepare, comforting, and nutritious. With its blend of tender ground beef, hearty rice, peas, and melted cheese, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. It’s customizable, meal-prep friendly, and great for feeding a crowd, making it a versatile and go-to dish for any occasion.

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