Introduction
This delicious ground beef casserole combines savory flavors with the heartiness of rice and vegetables. It’s an excellent dish for families or for meal prep, providing a satisfying and nutritious meal that’s easy to make any day of the week. The gooey melted cheese on top makes it an irresistible comfort food that everyone will love.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
2 green bell peppers, diced
1 cup uncooked instant white rice
1 cup beef broth
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1½ cups shredded Italian blend cheese
Prep Time
Preparation time for this casserole is approximately 15 minutes. This includes cooking the ground beef and preparing the other ingredients for assembly.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 35 minutes, with a total time of 50 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields approximately 6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or leftovers for lunch.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add Green Bell Peppers
Add the diced green bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the uncooked instant white rice, beef broth, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 6: Cover and Bake
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded Italian blend cheese evenly over the top, and return the dish to the oven.
Step 8: Bake Uncovered
Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 9: Rest Before Serving
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Serving Size
This recipe serves approximately 6 people.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions
This casserole can be frozen before or after baking. If freezing before baking, cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then proceed with baking instructions.
Substitutions
Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. You can also switch out the green bell peppers with other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms.
Cheese Variations
Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, cheddar, or a combination for a unique flavor profile.
Cook techniques
Cooking Ground Beef
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring it is evenly cooked and crumbled. Drain excess fat before proceeding with the recipe.
Sautéing Vegetables
Add the diced green bell peppers to the skillet after the beef is cooked. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they soften, which enhances their flavor and texture.
Combining Ingredients
Stir in instant white rice, beef broth, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Ensure all components are mixed well to allow the flavors to blend during baking.
Baking
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil before baking to trap moisture, creating a tender and flavorful casserole.
Melting Cheese
After the initial baking, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded Italian blend cheese on top. Return to the oven uncovered to melt the cheese, resulting in a bubbly and golden topping.
FAQ
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the ground beef based on your preference.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio, as brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time.
What can I use instead of beef broth?
You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth, chicken broth, or even water, keeping in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.
Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Feel free to add vegetables like corn, diced tomatoes, or zucchini to enhance the nutrition and flavor of the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Conclusion
This savory ground beef and rice casserole, enriched with vibrant green bell peppers and topped with melted Italian blend cheese, offers a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion. Its easy preparation and delicious flavor make it a perfect choice for family dinners. Enjoy the warm, hearty goodness of this dish as a delightful weeknight option.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Utilize the same ingredients to fill hollowed-out green bell peppers and bake until tender. Top with cheese for a delicious twist.
Beef and Rice Skillet
Skip the oven and prepare on the stovetop. Combine the ingredients in a skillet, cover, and cook until rice is tender and flavors meld.
Taco Casserole
Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn to the mixture for a Tex-Mex flair. Serve with salsa and sour cream on the side.
Cheesy Beef and Veggie Bake
Incorporate additional vegetables such as zucchini or corn for a more nutritious version. Top with an extra layer of cheese for cheesiness.
Italian Meatballs and Rice
Shape the ground beef into meatballs, bake, and serve over a bed of the rice mixture with tomato sauce for a classic Italian dish.
