Mediterranean Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake
This Mediterranean-inspired beef and mushroom rice bake is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and creamy rice baked to perfection. It’s simple to prepare, filling, and layered with Mediterranean flavors, making it ideal for a family dinner or a cozy weekend meal. The cream of mushroom soup and sour cream create a luscious sauce, while the rice absorbs all the savory goodness. Top it with a sprinkle of cheddar for extra indulgence, or keep it lighter for a balanced, wholesome casserole.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 cup chopped mushrooms
1 small onion, diced
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
2 cups beef broth
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Preheat oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook beef and vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onions, and mushrooms. Cook until the beef is browned and the vegetables are softened. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Drain excess fat if needed.
Prepare creamy mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and sour cream until smooth.
Assemble the bake: Add the uncooked rice and beef mixture to the creamy sauce. Stir until everything is well combined.
Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover tightly with foil.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Add cheese (optional): If using cheddar, remove the foil, sprinkle cheese evenly over the top, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until melted and bubbly.
Rest and serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips & Variations
Rice choices: White rice cooks evenly in this bake, but you can use brown rice or wild rice blend. Just note that they may need extra broth and a longer cooking time.
Cheese options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, parmesan, or a Mediterranean cheese like feta for a tangier flavor.
Vegetable boost: Add chopped zucchini, spinach, bell peppers, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
Herb twist: Fresh parsley, thyme, oregano, or rosemary can brighten the flavors. Stir into the mix before baking or sprinkle on top before serving.
Make it lighter: Use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt instead of regular sour cream. You can also choose reduced-sodium broth and soup.
Protein variation: Try ground turkey, ground chicken, or even lamb for a different Mediterranean flair.
Crunchy topping: For extra texture, top with breadcrumbs mixed with olive oil and herbs instead of (or in addition to) cheese.
Make ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 10–15 minutes if starting cold.
Freezer-friendly: This dish freezes well. Store cooled portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it creamy.
Q&A
Q: Can I use pre-cooked rice instead of uncooked?
A: Yes, but reduce the broth by half since the rice won’t need to absorb as much liquid. Bake for less time (about 25–30 minutes) to avoid overcooking.
Q: How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
A: Make sure the dish is tightly covered with foil during baking so the rice steams properly. If it looks dry toward the end, add a splash of broth before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish without cream of mushroom soup?
A: Absolutely. Replace it with 1 cup of homemade white sauce (butter, flour, milk) flavored with mushrooms, garlic, and herbs.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Yes, it’s creamy, mild, and cheesy, which kids usually enjoy. You can reduce garlic powder or pepper if cooking for younger children.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) with a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.
Nutrition
(per serving, based on 6 servings)
Calories: ~360
Protein: 20 g
Fat: 17 g
Carbohydrates: 32 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: ~750 mg
Calcium: 120 mg
(Values may vary depending on cheese type, soup brand, and broth used.)
Conclusion
The Mediterranean Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake is a cozy, one-dish meal that blends hearty ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and tender rice in a rich, creamy sauce. The cheddar (or your cheese of choice) adds a comforting finish, while the herbs and garlic keep the flavors bright and balanced. It’s easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and versatile enough for weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize with extra veggies or leaner proteins, this casserole delivers both comfort and convenience with a Mediterranean touch.