Description
Cheesy Mushroom & Beef Casserole
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this rich, cheesy casserole filled with tender beef, mushrooms, and creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 1/2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 onion, minced
2 cups cooked rice
1 cup cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar
1 tbsp olive oil
Dash of thyme
Salt & pepper
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Cook onions and mushrooms with thyme in olive oil.
Brown ground beef, season with salt and pepper.
Mix beef, rice, soup, sour cream, and cheese. Spread in a dish.
Top with remaining cheese and mushrooms. Bake for 25 minutes.
#FallFlavors
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Preheat: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Cook 2 cups of rice according to package instructions if you haven’t already.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced onion and sliced mushrooms. Sprinkle with a dash of thyme. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms have released their moisture and browned. Remove half of the mushroom mixture and set aside for the topping.
3. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the same skillet with the remaining mushroom mixture. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no pink remains. Season generously with salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat.
4. Combine the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned beef mixture, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
5. Assemble & Bake: Transfer the beef and rice mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the top with the reserved sautéed mushrooms and the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to turn golden at the edges.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides to balance its richness. Serve it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts or carrots. For a comforting touch, a warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for scooping up every last bit.
How-to Summary
Sauté mushrooms and onions, then brown seasoned beef. Mix with cooked rice, soup, sour cream, and most of the cheese. Transfer to a dish, top with reserved mushrooms and remaining cheese, and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup? You can substitute with cream of celery or golden mushroom soup. For a homemade version, make a simple white sauce and sauté extra mushrooms to add in.
Can I use a different type of meat? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or pork are excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based ground “meat” or an additional 2 cups of lentils.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 325°F oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze this casserole? It freezes well after baking. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using uncooked rice, as it will not absorb enough liquid and will remain hard. Do not skip draining the excess fat from the browned beef, as this can make the final dish greasy. Ensure your sour cream is at room temperature before mixing to prevent curdling. Finally, resist the urge to overbake; remove the casserole as soon as the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbly to maintain a creamy texture.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Mushroom & Beef Casserole is the epitome of comforting, flavorful home cooking. It’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing dish that comes together with simple steps for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend feast. By following this enhanced guide and tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and customize it to your taste, ensuring a perfect, delicious result every time. Enjoy the rich, fall-inspired flavors!
