Let me tell you, there’s something so comforting about a warm, bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven! This casserole recipe is my go-to for family dinners, and it never disappoints. It’s simple, hearty, and packed with flavors that make everyone come back for seconds (or thirds!). I remember those cozy nights when we’d gather around the table, plates piled high with this deliciousness, laughter filling the air. It’s the kind of dish that not only nourishes your body but also warms your heart. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your home, too!
Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious casserole come together effortlessly! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, either frozen or canned
- 1 onion, chopped finely
- 2 cups shredded cheese (I love a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- 1 cup cooked rice (leftover rice works perfectly!)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder for that extra kick
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to get creative—this recipe is forgiving, so you can mix and match depending on what you have on hand!
How to Prepare This Casserole Recipe
Alright, let’s get cooking! First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when we’re ready to bake. While that’s happening, grab a large skillet and brown the pound of ground beef over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and fragrant—this is where the magic begins!
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat (nobody wants a greasy casserole!). Now, stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, drained kidney beans, corn, cooked rice, and chili powder. Mix everything together really well, and season with salt and pepper to your liking. This mixture is going to be the heart of your casserole!
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and spread it out evenly. Now, it’s time for the best part—top it off with those two cups of shredded cheese! Pop it in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Just keep an eye on it; you want that delicious cheese to be perfectly melted. Trust me, the smell will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Casserole Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip this up in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Hearty Ingredients: Packed with ground beef, beans, and cheese, this dish is filling and satisfying, making it a complete meal.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this casserole, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies if you choose to add them!
- Versatile: You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand, making it a flexible dish.
- Leftover Friendly: It reheats wonderfully, so you can enjoy it again for lunch or dinner the next day!
Tips for Success
Here are a few pro tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time! First, don’t hesitate to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option—it’s just as tasty! If you want to sneak in some extra nutrition, add in chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach; they’ll blend right in!
When it comes to baking, cover the casserole with foil for the first 15 minutes to keep it moist, then uncover it for the remaining time to allow that cheese to get all bubbly and golden. And remember, let it rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps it set up nicely and makes serving easier. Trust me, these little tips will elevate your casserole game!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food, this casserole recipe hits the sweet spot without compromising on nutrition! Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying meal. Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical nutritional values:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 15g (Saturated Fat: 7g)
- Carbohydrates: 35g (Fiber: 7g, Sugar: 3g)
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes. Enjoy this hearty dish knowing it’s packed with goodness!
FAQ About Casserole Recipe
Got questions about this casserole recipe? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I hear:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. Just prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven—no need to worry about thawing!
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works beautifully! You can also use plant-based meat alternatives if you want to keep it vegetarian.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to throw in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach. They’ll add great flavor and nutrients without overpowering the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through!
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can! Just let it cool completely, then cover it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. It’s a great way to have an easy meal on hand!
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal complete, I love serving this hearty casserole with a side salad—something light and fresh to balance the richness of the dish. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette works wonders! You could also pair it with some crusty garlic bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness. If you’re in the mood for something warm, cornbread is a fantastic option too! And don’t forget, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top can really elevate the flavors. Enjoy your meal with family and friends; it’s all about sharing good food and great company!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from this delicious casserole is super easy! Just let it cool completely, then transfer any remaining portions to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for those busy weeknights! If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it as well. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
To reheat, pop it in the microwave for a quick fix or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until it’s heated through. Just keep an eye on it to make sure that lovely cheese doesn’t overcook!
Print
Casserole Recipe: 5 Comforting Steps for Family Bliss
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and hearty casserole recipe perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheese
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with chopped onion.
- Drain excess fat and add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, corn, rice, and chili powder.
- Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.
Notes
- Can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: casserole recipe, easy casserole, family dinner
