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Introduction
Creamy Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish, bringing together tender ground beef, fluffy rice, rich cream, savory cheese, and aromatic garlic. It’s a one-pan, oven-baked meal that satisfies the whole family with its cozy, creamy goodness.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Casseroles became popular in mid-20th-century America, especially as busy households sought out hearty, make-ahead meals. This particular recipe blends the American love of casseroles with comforting European flavors like garlic, thyme, and butter. It reflects the beauty of fusion cooking—simple pantry ingredients transformed into nostalgic, family-friendly fare.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup onion, diced
- 1 cup rice (long-grain or jasmine)
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Additions
- ½ cup frozen peas or corn (added before baking for a veggie boost)
- 1 tablespoon cream cheese (for extra richness)
- A pinch of red pepper flakes (for heat)
- Mushrooms or bell peppers (sautéed with the onion for added depth)
Tips for Success
- Use freshly minced garlic for the boldest flavor.
- Rinse rice before adding to remove excess starch and ensure fluffiness.
- Don’t skip browning the beef—this adds flavor to the entire dish.
- For best texture, let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes after baking before serving.
- If the casserole seems too thick after baking, stir in a splash of warm broth or cream.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the garlic and onion to the skillet. Sauté until onions are translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the rice, beef broth, heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 15–20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let cool slightly, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
Description
This casserole is a savory symphony of flavors and textures—tender beef mingles with creamy rice, while the garlic butter undertones and gooey cheddar topping elevate every bite. It’s the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside out.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 520 kcal
- Protein: 23g
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 670mg
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Butter Beef and Rice Casserole is a fuss-free, flavor-packed dish that turns simple ingredients into a comforting meal. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or meal-prep favorite, it never disappoints.
Recommendation
Serve this casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness. It also pairs well with a warm dinner roll or garlic toast.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this indulgent dish more health-conscious, consider:
- Using lean ground beef or ground turkey
- Substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk
- Mixing in extra vegetables for fiber and nutrients
- Reducing cheese or opting for low-fat versions
By making smart swaps, you can still enjoy the creamy, comforting essence of this dish without compromise.
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