Ground Beef And Rice Casserole With Tomato Sauce

I remember one particularly hectic week where I found myself staring into my pantry, trying to come up with a meal using only the ingredients I had on hand. It was a challenge, to say the least, but I was determined to make it work. After a bit of rummaging, I found a pound of ground beef, a bag of rice, and a can of tomato sauce. With a little creativity and a lot of hunger, I decided to whip up a delicious Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Tomato Sauce.

Understanding the Topic

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Tomato Sauce is a classic comfort dish that is both hearty and delicious. It is a perfect meal for busy weeknights when you want something filling and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish combines simple ingredients like ground beef, rice, tomato sauce, and a few basic seasonings to create a flavorful and budget-friendly meal that the whole family will love.

Common Pitfalls or Mistakes

One common mistake when making Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Tomato Sauce is overcooking the rice. It’s important to follow the recipe instructions carefully and not to overcook the rice, as it can become mushy and unpleasant. Another common pitfall is not seasoning the dish enough. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasonings as needed to ensure a delicious and flavorful casserole.

Little-Known Facts or Useful Background

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Tomato Sauce is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. You can add additional vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or peas to bulk up the dish and add extra nutrients. You can also experiment with different seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or chili flakes to give the dish a unique flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Recipe or Instructions

Here is a simple recipe for making Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Tomato Sauce:

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef

– 1 cup rice

– 1 can tomato sauce

– 1 1/2 cups beef broth

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Shredded cheese for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

3. Add the rice, tomato sauce, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.

4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.

5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.

6. Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Ingredients	Amount
Ground beef	1 pound
Rice	1 cup
Tomato sauce	1 can
Beef broth	1 1/2 cups
Seasonings	Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper
Shredded cheese	For topping

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake it. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the casserole is cold when you put it in the oven.

What can I serve with Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Tomato Sauce?

This dish is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat the casserole in the microwave or in the oven until heated through.

Savings Spotlight 💵

• Buy pantry staples like rice and beans in bulk — then store in reused jars
• Repurpose pickle juice to marinate chicken or season potatoes
• Make your own spice blends instead of buying pre-made packets

“You can make any dinner stretch if you’ve got garlic, broth, and a can of beans,” says Rosa N., a former school cafeteria chef turned cookbook author.

“Being creative in the kitchen doesn’t have to be expensive. Use what you have on hand and experiment with different flavors to create delicious meals,” says Jamie D., a budget cooking coach.

Budget Kitchen Tip 💡

In conclusion, Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Tomato Sauce is a simple and satisfying meal that can be easily customized to suit your tastes. By following a few simple steps and using basic ingredients, you can create a delicious and budget-friendly dish that the whole family will love. So next time you find yourself staring into your pantry, wondering what to make for dinner, remember this easy and versatile recipe. Happy cooking!