Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake

Description:

This hearty Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake is a comfort food classic, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. Tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and fluffy rice are enveloped in a creamy, savory sauce and topped with a golden, cheesy crust. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

📋 Ingredients for Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• ½ cup sour cream

• 1 tsp dried thyme (or Italian seasoning)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (or a blend)

• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

🔥 Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. Add olive oil, then sauté onions and garlic until translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until softened.

4. Stir in uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil.

6. Bake for 45 minutes, then remove foil, stir gently, and sprinkle with cheese.

7. Bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

📝 Notes:

• Use pre-cooked rice to cut down baking time by 15–20 minutes (reduce broth to 1 cup).

• Add frozen peas or green beans for extra veggies.

• You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with homemade white sauce or another cream soup (e.g., cream of celery).

💡 Tips:

• For a richer flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while browning.

• Try using a mix of cheeses (like Gruyère or Fontina) for a gourmet touch.

• Let the bake sit before serving so the rice can absorb excess liquid.

🍽️ Servings:

• Makes 6 generous servings

• Easily doubled for meal prep or a crowd

⚖️ Nutritional Info (Per Serving, Approx.):

• Calories: 430

• Protein: 24g

• Carbohydrates: 32g

• Fat: 24g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sodium: 780mg

• Sugar: 3g

(May vary depending on ingredients used)

🌟 Benefits:

• Balanced meal – includes protein, carbs, and dairy

• Kid-friendly – creamy and cheesy flavors are a hit with children

• Customizable – easily adaptable with other veggies or meats

• Great for leftovers – reheats well for next-day lunches

❓Q&A:

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10 extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Q: Can I use brown rice or quinoa?

A: Brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Quinoa works well and can be substituted 1:1 for rice, but reduce liquid slightly.

Q: Is there a gluten-free version?

A: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure the beef broth is also gluten-free.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?

A: Yes. Cool completely, then freeze in portions. Reheat in the microwave or oven with a splash of broth or water to rehydrate.