If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor, the Italian Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish combines tender, seasoned ground beef with perfectly cooked rice, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce and topped with a melty blanket of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s simple to prepare but feels like a special occasion dinner, perfect for feeding a family or bringing to a potluck. The layers of gooey cheese and savory beef make every bite a delicious celebration of classic Italian-American flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Italian Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering a balanced mix of taste, texture, and color that turns humble staples into something wonderful.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base giving rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth when cooked down with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that’s essential in Italian cooking.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A perfectly blended mix of herbs that brings authentic Italian flair.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and rounds out the seasoning.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juice): Provides vibrant color and juicy acidity that lifts the dish.
- 1 cup tomato sauce: Deepens the tomato flavor and creates a luscious sauce base.
- 1½ cups cooked white or brown rice: The tender, fluffy starch that brings balance and bulk to the casserole.
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible gooey topping.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty finish that complements the mozzarella.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, herbaceous touch to brighten and garnish the final dish.
- Olive oil for cooking: Used to sauté the beef and vegetables, adding subtle richness.
How to Make Italian Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Sauté
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick later. Then, warm a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is nicely browned and the onion softens — this usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes. The aroma at this stage will already have your mouth watering.
Step 2: Season and Simmer
Next, stir in the minced garlic along with the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking for about a minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the tomato sauce. Lower the heat and let everything simmer gently for 5 minutes. This reduces the sauce slightly and melds all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 3: Combine with Rice
Once your sauce is seasoned and simmering nicely, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the cooked rice until it’s fully incorporated, making sure every grain is coated with that lovely tomato-meat sauce. This step ensures a perfect distribution of flavors in every bite of the casserole.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Then, generously top with shredded mozzarella and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over everything. Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving; this helps it set and makes serving easier.
How to Serve Italian Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley just before serving for that lovely pop of green and a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor. If you like, a light grating of extra Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of good olive oil can take it to the next level.
Side Dishes
This casserole is filling on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even some garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family dinner, scoop portions onto colorful plates and garnish with a sprig of fresh basil for a rustic Italian vibe. If you’re bringing it to a gathering, bake it in a disposable foil pan and bring along small bowls of toppings like sliced olives, hot red pepper flakes, or extra cheese to let guests customize their servings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Italian Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect option for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. You can assemble it fully and bake it from frozen by adding an extra 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time. Wrap it tightly in foil or store it in a freezer-safe container to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a faster alternative, just be sure to cover so it reheats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice works just as well and adds a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber to the casserole. Just be sure to use rice that’s already cooked since the casserole itself doesn’t bake long enough to cook raw rice through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This Italian Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you use gluten-free tomato products and seasoning blends. Always double-check labels if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivity.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Yes! Adding veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms is a great way to boost nutrition and flavor. Stir them into the beef mixture before baking so they cook perfectly in the sauce.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley for garnish?
No worries if fresh parsley isn’t on hand. You can omit it or sprinkle a bit of dried Italian herbs on top after baking for extra color and flavor.
How long does this casserole take to make from start to finish?
From prepping your ingredients to the final baked cheesy goodness, the entire process takes about 40 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for speed.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, the Italian Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is one you’ll want to keep coming back to. It hits all the notes from comforting and cheesy to savory and satisfying, and it’s a breeze to prepare even on the busiest nights. Give it a try soon — your dinner table will thank you!
Print
Italian Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Italian Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish featuring seasoned ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and tender rice, all topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, it’s easy to prepare and bakes to bubbly, cheesy perfection.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- Olive oil, for cooking
Other Ingredients
- 1½ cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onion: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion and cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Simmer: Stir in the minced garlic, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute to release the aromas. Then add the diced tomatoes with juice and tomato sauce. Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine with Rice: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the cooked rice until the mixture is well combined and uniform.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top the casserole with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired for added color and freshness.
Notes
- Use leftover rice to speed up preparation.
- For extra nutrition and flavor, stir in a handful of spinach, diced bell peppers, or mushrooms before baking.
- This casserole freezes well; you can assemble ahead of time and bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time.
