Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
• 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning
• salt (to taste)
• black pepper (to taste)
• 3 tbsp butter (divided)
• 0.75 cup onions (diced)
• 1 tbsp garlic (minced)
• 2.5 cup beef broth
• 1.25 cup white long grain rice (uncooked; not instant rice)
• 8 oz button mushrooms (sliced and washed)
• 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup (one standard can)
• 0.5 cup milk (any kind)
• 0.5 cup sour cream
• 2 cup cheddar cheese (divided)

Steps

1. 1

   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

2. 2

   In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. 3

   Add the beef broth and uncooked white long grain rice to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

4. 4

   While the rice cooks, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a separate pan and sauté the sliced mushrooms until browned and tender.

5. 5

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

6. 6

   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice mixture, browned ground beef, sautéed mushrooms, cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and 1 cup of the cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined.

7. 7

   Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

8. 8

   Top the casserole with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese.

9. 9

   Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Notes

Ensure you use long-grain white rice rather than instant rice to maintain the proper texture during the simmering and baking process. If the mixture seems too thick before baking, you can add an extra splash of milk.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• casserole
• beef
• cheesy
• dinner
• comfort food
• baked