Hearty Baked American Casserole
This Hearty Baked American Casserole is an irresistible oven-baked dish that combines the comforting flavors of ground beef, crisp vegetables, and aromatic garlic in a rich, savory sauce. The harmonious blend of colorful bell peppers and tender mushrooms ensures each bite is packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfect for family dinners or community potlucks, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. Be warned, it's difficult to stop at just one serving!
6
Servings
416.67
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean ground beef
1 lb (browned and drained)
oil
1/3 cup (for cooking)
celery
2 cups (chopped)
onion
1 cup (chopped)
green pepper
1 (chopped)
red pepper
1 (chopped)
garlic
8 cloves (minced)
cream of mushroom soup
1 can (10 ounces) (uncondensed)
boiling water
2 1/4 cups (hot)
raw white rice
1 cup (uncooked)
canned mushrooms
1 can (8 ounces) (use liquid)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (ground)
soy sauce
4 tablespoons (lite)
Instructions
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Nutrition Information
18.33g
Fat
48.33g
Carbs
18.33g
Protein
2.5g
Fiber
3.33g
Sugar
666.67mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Baked American Casserole?
It is a comforting oven-baked dish featuring ground beef, rice, and fresh vegetables in a savory mushroom-based sauce.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
This recipe calls for one pound of lean ground beef, which is browned and drained before being added to the casserole.
Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
What oven temperature is required?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking the casserole.
How long does the casserole need to bake?
The dish should bake for approximately 1 hour or until the rice is tender and the flavors have blended.
Do I need to cook the rice before adding it to the dish?
No, you use 1 cup of raw white rice which cooks in the oven with the boiling water and soup mixture.
What vegetables are included in this casserole?
The recipe includes celery, onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and canned mushrooms.
How much garlic is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses 8 cloves of minced garlic for a rich, aromatic flavor.
What type of soup is needed for the sauce?
You will need one 10-ounce can of uncondensed cream of mushroom soup.
Should I drain the canned mushrooms?
You should drain the mushrooms but keep the liquid, as the recipe specifically instructs to use the reserved mushroom liquid in the rice mixture.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve 6 people.
What is the calorie count per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 416.67 calories.
Is this recipe high in protein?
Each serving provides about 18.33g of protein.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can, but brown rice usually requires more liquid and a longer cooking time, so adjustments would be necessary.
What is the purpose of the soy sauce?
The soy sauce adds a savory, umami depth to the casserole's flavor profile.
Do I need to cover the dish while it bakes?
Yes, the dish must be covered tightly with a lid or aluminum foil to ensure the rice cooks properly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetables in advance, but it is best to add the liquid and rice just before baking.
Is this casserole suitable for potlucks?
Absolutely, its hearty nature and easy transportability make it a perfect choice for community gatherings.
What kind of oil should I use for sautéing?
The recipe specifies 1/3 cup of oil; vegetable, canola, or olive oil would work well.
How much sodium is in one serving?
There is approximately 666.67mg of sodium per serving.
What size pan should I use to brown the beef?
A medium skillet is recommended for browning the ground beef.
How do I prepare the vegetables?
The celery, onion, and peppers should be chopped, and the garlic should be minced before sautéing.
What gives the casserole its 'American' flavor?
The combination of ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, and classic garden vegetables creates a traditional American comfort food profile.
Can I add extra seasoning?
While it already contains garlic, black pepper, and soy sauce, you can add herbs like thyme or parsley if desired.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, once cooled, it can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
What is the carbohydrate content?
There are approximately 48.33g of carbohydrates per serving.
How long should the dish rest after baking?
Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the temperature to stabilize.
Is this recipe considered a one-dish meal?
Yes, it is tagged as a one-dish meal because it combines starch, protein, and vegetables in one baking pan.
What is the total fat content?
The recipe contains approximately 18.33g of fat per serving.