Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Aluminum foil
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
4. Add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Transfer the beef and rice mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown.
9. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 365
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 26g
Sodium: 800mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the ground beef.
- Brown rice can be used instead of white rice.
- Fresh tomatoes can be used instead of canned tomatoes.
Variations:
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef and rice mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a spicier casserole.
- Top the casserole with sliced black olives or chopped fresh herbs before baking.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to drain any excess fat from the ground beef before adding the other ingredients.
- Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
- If the casserole is browning too quickly, cover it with foil again during the last few minutes of baking.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the casserole on a large platter with a side salad and garlic bread.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or basil on top of the casserole before serving.
Pairings:
Serve the casserole with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese.
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the rice is still undercooked after simmering for 25 minutes, add a little more beef broth or water and continue cooking until the rice is tender.
- If the casserole is too dry, add a little more tomato sauce or beef broth before baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
Italian cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, such as lasagna, pizza, and pasta. Casseroles are also popular in Italian-American cuisine, as they are a convenient and comforting way to feed a crowd.
Flavor profiles:
This casserole is savory and comforting, with a rich tomato sauce and a blend of Italian herbs. The melted mozzarella cheese adds a creamy and indulgent touch.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the casserole hot and bubbly, with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad.
Related Categories
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Region: Italian
Taste: Savory, Herby, Cheesy, Meaty, Comforting