Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake
Description:
A comforting, all-in-one casserole dish combining tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals, this bake brings hearty flavors together in a satisfying, family-friendly dish.
Origin:
Inspired by classic American casseroles and Midwestern comfort food traditions, this dish reflects the convenience and flavor focus of post-1950s one-dish meals, often popularized through community cookbooks and home cooking.
Ingredients (Quantity):
• Ground beef – 1 lb (450g)
• White or brown mushrooms (sliced) – 2 cups (150g)
• Long grain white rice (uncooked) – 1 cup (190g)
• Onion (diced) – 1 medium
• Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves
• Cream of mushroom soup – 1 can (10.5 oz or 295g)
• Beef broth – 2 cups (480ml)
• Milk – 1/2 cup (120ml)
• Shredded cheddar cheese – 1 1/2 cups (170g)
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Black pepper – 1/2 tsp
• Dried thyme – 1/2 tsp
• Paprika – 1/2 tsp
Optional Ingredients:
• Sour cream – 1/4 cup (adds extra creaminess)
• Green peas – 1/2 cup (for color and sweetness)
• Worcestershire sauce – 1 tsp (enhances umami flavor)
• Fresh parsley (chopped) – for garnish
• Crushed French-fried onions or breadcrumbs – 1/2 cup (for a crispy topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; sauté until softened (2–3 minutes).
3. Add ground beef, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until softened.
5. Add rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, milk, thyme, and optional Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly.
6. Transfer to the baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
7. Remove foil, stir, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is melted and rice is tender.
8. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Tips for Success:
• Rinse rice before use to avoid excess starch.
• Slice mushrooms evenly for consistent cooking.
• Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
• Cover tightly with foil to trap steam and cook the rice evenly.
• Add a crispy topping in the last 10 minutes for texture contrast.
Recommendations:
• Pair with a simple green salad or steamed broccoli.
• Make ahead and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
• Freezes well – portion and store in airtight containers.
Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings):
• Calories: ~480
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: ~850mg
• Sugar: 4g
Let me know if you’d like a printable recipe card or image for the dish!