Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake

Introduction

I recently made this Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake for a family dinner, and it was an instant hit! The combination of tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and creamy, cheesy goodness is absolutely irresistible. Not only is it comforting, but it’s also a one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The rice absorbs the flavorful broth while baking, making it soft and perfectly seasoned, and the melted cheese on top adds the perfect finishing touch. My family loved every bite, and it’s definitely a recipe I’ll make again. This dish is not only easy to make but also filling and satisfying, making it the perfect dinner for all ages. If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that doesn’t take too long to prepare, this creamy rice bake is the one to try!

Ingredients

• 1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 ½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons butter, divided
• ¾ cup diced onions
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 ¼ cups uncooked long-grain white rice (not instant)
• 8 oz. fresh button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 can (10.5 oz.) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté the Onions & Garlic: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook for about 3–4 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Prepare the Rice: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes until they soften. Stir in the uncooked rice and let it toast for 1–2 minutes to enhance its flavor.
4. Combine Broth & Beef: Pour in the beef broth and add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Make It Creamy: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the rice mixture until fully combined and creamy.
6. Bake the Casserole: Transfer the creamy mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake & Serve: Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up slightly.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 65mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve as a Main Dish: This creamy rice bake can be served as a hearty main dish for dinner. Pair it with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Garnish: Garnish the bake with some fresh parsley or extra shredded cheese for added color and flavor.
• With Side Dishes: Serve alongside garlic bread, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables to complement the creamy flavors of the casserole.
• For Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container and refrigerate for the next meal. This casserole reheats well in the oven or microwave.

Additional Tips

1. Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5-10 extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. Use Lean Ground Beef: For a lighter version, you can use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) or even ground turkey.
3. Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas to the dish to make it even more nutritious.
4. For Extra Creaminess: If you prefer an even creamier casserole, you can add an extra ½ cup of sour cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the mixture.
5. Frozen Mushrooms: If you don’t have fresh mushrooms, frozen mushrooms can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess water before adding them to the skillet.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: Skip the ground beef and use a plant-based meat substitute or simply load the casserole with more mushrooms and vegetables for a vegetarian version.
2. Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for a spicy twist on this creamy bake.
3. Cheesy Variation: Use a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella, gouda, or Parmesan, to give the dish a different flavor profile.
4. Use Brown Rice: If you prefer brown rice over white rice, substitute the long-grain white rice with an equal amount of uncooked brown rice. Just keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook, so you may need to add extra liquid and cooking time.
5. Italian Twist: Add a tablespoon of pesto sauce or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a more Italian-inspired flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Family Meal: This casserole is perfect for family dinners, as it’s easy to make and can feed a crowd.
• For a Potluck: Bring this creamy beef and mushroom rice bake to a potluck or family gathering. It’s sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.
• With Wine: Pair this dish with a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, to complement the rich, creamy flavors.
• For a Special Occasion: This dish can also be served on special occasions like holidays or birthdays for a comforting and indulgent meal.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and freeze before baking. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake according to the instructions.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or bake in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use instant rice instead of long-grain rice?
   Instant rice is not recommended because it cooks too quickly and might become mushy in the casserole. Use long-grain rice for the best texture.
2. Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?
   Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative to ground beef. You can use the same amount as the recipe calls for.
3. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
   Yes, substitute the sour cream and cream of mushroom soup with dairy-free alternatives, and use a dairy-free cheese blend.
4. How can I make this recipe spicier?
   Add some red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture to give it a spicy kick.
5. Can I use pre-cooked rice?
   It’s best to use uncooked rice in this recipe as it absorbs the flavors of the broth and cooks perfectly during the baking process.
6. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
7. Can I use frozen mushrooms?
   Frozen mushrooms can be used in place of fresh mushrooms. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
8. How can I make this casserole even creamier?
   For extra creaminess, add an extra ½ cup of sour cream or some cream cheese to the mix.
9. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes, this casserole freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
10. How long does this casserole last in the fridge?
    Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion
This Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake is the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and ease. With

tender rice, savory ground beef, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, this casserole is sure to be a favorite in your household. It’s ideal for busy nights, special gatherings, or any time you want a hearty, satisfying meal. This dish has the kind of flavors that everyone will love, making it a staple in your dinner rotation.

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