Ingredients
Ground beef: Look for ninety three percent lean for less grease and easy browning It brings hearty protein and rich flavor
Chopped mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add earthiness and moisture I pick cremini or white button and always wipe any dirt away before chopping
Small onion diced: Fresh onion brings sweetness and foundation to the flavor Choose a firm onion with tight skin for best results
Uncooked white rice: Regular long grain white rice gives this dish its signature fluffy texture Rinse before using to remove extra starch
Cream of mushroom soup: This creates instant creaminess throughout the bake Low sodium cans let you control the seasoning
Beef broth: Use a good quality broth for depth A boxed broth or homemade will really shine here
Sour cream: Adds a tangy creamy richness Full fat works best for a luscious sauce
Garlic powder: Gives cozy background flavor Make sure your garlic powder is fresh and fragrant
Salt and pepper to taste: Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go to balance the flavors
Shredded cheddar cheese optional: For a bubbly golden topping Pick sharp cheddar with bold flavor and grate it yourself for best melt
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Brown the Beef and Aromatics:
In a large skillet cook ground beef mushrooms and onion over medium heat Stir often to break up the beef and let the onions get soft Cook for about ten minutes until beef is no longer pink Use a spoon to drain off excess fat for a less greasy casserole
Mix the Base:
In a big mixing bowl combine your browned beef mixture uncooked white rice cream of mushroom soup beef broth sour cream garlic powder a good pinch of salt and some black pepper Stir everything together until it is fully blended and the rice is evenly mixed in
Layer and Bake:
Spread the whole mixture into a greased nine by thirteen inch baking dish Use a spatula to smooth the top so it cooks evenly Cover tightly with foil This creates steam for tender rice Bake at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit for fifty to sixty minutes until the rice is soft and the liquid is mostly absorbed
Finish with Cheese:
If using cheddar cheese sprinkle over the top of the casserole after baking Remove foil and bake uncovered for five more minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles Let it stand at least three minutes so the sauce thickens before serving
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A bowl of rice with mushrooms and meat.
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A bowl of rice with mushrooms and meat. | gracefulflavors.com
You Must Know
Packed with protein and satisfies for hours
Makes leftovers that reheat beautifully
Creamy sauce means even picky eaters love it
Mushrooms are my secret weapon in this bake Their moisture keeps every bite tender and that hint of earthiness makes the flavor feel so much richer My family always jokes that they wish there was a way to bottle the smell of this rice bake in the oven because it means everyone comes running to the table
Storage Tips
Wrap leftovers tightly or keep them in an airtight container in the fridge They will taste just as good for two to three days To reheat add a splash of beef broth to keep the rice nice and creamy Warm in the oven covered with foil or microwave individual portions
Ingredient Substitutions
If you are out of ground beef you can use ground turkey or chicken Just know turkey brings a lighter flavor Swap white rice for brown for a more wholesome touch but tack on an extra fifteen to twenty minutes baking time No sour cream No problem Greek yogurt works and gives a bright tang
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hardy enough to be a meal on its own but it also pairs well with steamed green beans or a crisp salad For an extra pop toss some fresh parsley on before serving and it will look like it came out of a fancy kitchen Leftovers get even better and can be scooped into tortillas for a fun lunch
A white bowl filled with rice and mushrooms.
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A white bowl filled with rice and mushrooms. | gracefulflavors.com
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Cultural and Historical Notes
This casserole style meal is classic Americana Born out of home cooks needing warmth and satisfaction with everyday ingredients Creamy bakes like this became popular in the midcentury when canned soups started popping up in home kitchens They are still beloved for their nostalgia and ability to feed a crowd with love
Pro Tips
Taste your mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning for real depth
Rinsing your rice removes excess starch and prevents gummy texture
Letting the casserole rest before scooping makes each serving hold together and keeps the sauce from running
Frequently Asked Questions
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→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer baking time and additional liquid to ensure tenderness.
→ What cheese works best for the topping?
Cheddar is ideal, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella also melt well and complement the dish’s flavors.
→ Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
→ Can I add vegetables or substitute meats?
Chopped bell pepper, peas, or even ground turkey can be substituted to suit taste or dietary needs.
→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat servings in the microwave or covered in the oven until warm.
