Brown Rice and Beef Casserole

Satisfy your craving for a hearty and wholesome meal with this Brown Rice and Beef Casserole, a comforting classic perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners. This recipe pairs tender, nutty brown rice with savory ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and a medley of seasonings, all brought together with a rich beef-infused tomato sauce. Topped with a generous layer of melty cheddar cheese, this casserole is baked to golden perfection for a dish that's as satisfying as it is flavorful. With its simple preparation, nutrient-packed ingredients like brown rice and carrots, and customizable garnishes like fresh parsley, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a household favorite. Plus, it's perfect for meal prepping and reheats like a dream!

Nutriscore Rating: 67/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:50 mins

Total Time:65 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 15 oz can canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the brown rice and water. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Set aside.

Step 3

While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the diced onion and carrot to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently.

Step 6

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and no longer pink. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 7

Stir in the canned diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

Step 8

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice and the beef mixture. Stir until fully incorporated.

Step 9

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 10

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 11

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 12

Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 13

Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2156 grams (2156.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1976

Total Fat 134.00g	172%
Saturated Fat 59.40g	297%
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.30g
Cholesterol 402mg	134%
Sodium 5119mg	223%
Total Carbohydrate 88.00g	32%
Dietary Fiber 12.50g	45%
Total Sugars 19.90g
Protein 109.90g	220%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1077mg	83%
Iron 13mg	71%
Potassium 2615mg	56%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 60.4%

Protein: 22.0%

Carbs: 17.6%