Introduction
Creamy Beef, Rice, and Green Bean Bake is the ultimate comfort food casserole, combining tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and green beans with a creamy sauce. This hearty dish is reminiscent of the classic green bean casserole but with added substance from the beef and rice, making it perfect for fall dinners. Topped with shredded Swiss cheese and toasted almonds, it has a rich, satisfying flavor that’s sure to warm you up on cooler nights. This casserole is not only delicious but also easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 2 cups fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting almonds)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Cook the Green Beans
If using fresh green beans, blanch them by boiling in salted water for 3-4 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside. If using frozen green beans, thaw them and pat dry.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, dried thyme, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the cooked rice and browned ground beef until everything is well mixed.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the green beans at the bottom of the dish, followed by the creamy beef and rice mixture. Spread the mixture evenly across the top of the beans.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 6: Bake and Finish
Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. In the last 5 minutes of baking, add the toasted almonds on top to allow them to crisp up further.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional toasted almonds and fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Notes:
- Rice Options: You can use any type of rice, such as basmati, jasmine, or even wild rice. If you’re short on time, leftover rice works perfectly.
- Meat Substitutes: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef for a lighter version of the dish.
- Vegetables: Swap out the green beans with broccoli or peas if you prefer, or add extra veggies like mushrooms for more variety.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Creamy Beef, Rice, and Green Bean Bake with a fresh side salad or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts, making it a great fall-inspired meal. For a complete dinner, consider pairing this casserole with a light red wine or iced tea.
Tips:
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole a day ahead. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and then bake as directed.
- Freezer-Friendly: This casserole freezes well. Prepare and bake the casserole, then let it cool completely. Cover with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Cheese Variety: While Swiss cheese adds a nutty flavor, you can use Gruyère or cheddar if you prefer a sharper cheese.
- Crispier Topping: For an extra crispy topping, mix the toasted almonds with a handful of breadcrumbs before sprinkling them on the casserole.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 30 minutes
Total Time:
- 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 22g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion:
Creamy Beef, Rice, and Green Bean Bake is a satisfying, family-friendly casserole that brings together classic fall flavors with a rich, creamy twist. The toasted almonds and Swiss cheese topping provide the perfect finishing touch, adding both crunch and depth to this hearty dish. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this casserole will be a hit with everyone. It’s the kind of meal that comforts and nourishes, making it ideal for chilly autumn nights when you crave something warm and filling.
Print
Creamy Beef, Rice, and Green Bean Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 2 cups fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting almonds)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for 7-10 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Cook the Green Beans
If using fresh green beans, blanch them by boiling in salted water for 3-4 minutes, then immediately transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside. If using frozen green beans, thaw them and pat dry.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, dried thyme, paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir in the cooked rice and browned ground beef until everything is well mixed.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the green beans at the bottom of the dish, followed by the creamy beef and rice mixture. Spread the mixture evenly across the top of the beans.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced almonds and toast for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 6: Bake and Finish
Sprinkle the shredded Swiss cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. In the last 5 minutes of baking, add the toasted almonds on top to allow them to crisp up further.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional toasted almonds and fresh herbs, if desired
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 420
- Sodium: 800mg
- Protein: 22g