Ingredients
1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
1 small yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups cooked white rice (approx. 1 cup uncooked)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10.5 oz) condensed tomato soup (do not add water)
½ cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or ½ tsp paprika + ½ tsp oregano)
1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. **Preheat:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
2. **Brown the Beef:** In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess grease.
3. **Season:** Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Season with the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
4. **Combine:** Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, tomato soup, sour cream, and the cooked rice. Mix until everything is well combined and coated in the sauce.
5. **Add Cheese:** Stir in ½ cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the beef and rice mixture.
6. **Assemble:** Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out into an even layer.
7. **Top:** Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
8. **Bake:** Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese is melted.
9. **Serve:** Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Rice Tip: This recipe works best with long-grain white rice. You can use leftover cold rice or cook it fresh just before making the casserole.
Soup Variations: If you aren’t a fan of tomato soup, you can substitute it with a can of Cheddar Cheese soup or simply use extra cream of mushroom for a ‘Stroganoff’ style flavor.
Add Veggies: Feel free to stir in a cup of frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers with the rice mixture for extra nutrition.
Storage: Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American