Ground Beef and Rice Casserole 

This Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. Combining seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and fluffy rice, it's a one-dish meal that the whole family will love. Its simplicity and heartiness make it a go-to recipe for many.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85% lean)

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 1/2 cup milk

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning

• 3 tablespoons butter (divided)

• 3/4 cup diced onions

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

• 8 oz sliced button mushrooms

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish and set aside.

2. In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drain excess grease and set the beef aside.

3. In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

4. Add the beef broth, remaining butter, and uncooked rice to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10 minutes.

5. Place the sliced mushrooms on top of the rice mixture (do not stir). Cover and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 10 minutes.

6. Stir in the browned ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.

7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

8. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: Approximately 480 kcal

• Protein: 33g

• Fat: 28g

• Carbohydrates: 23g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 3g

• Sodium: 1085mg

• Cholesterol: 116mg

• Calcium: 354mg

• Iron: 3mg