Ingredients
For the Hamburger Rice Bake:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or basmati)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach (frozen spinach works too; be sure to drain it well)
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese (for the bake)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Spinach Artichoke Dip-inspired Sauce:
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup cooked spinach (drained if using frozen)
- 1/2 cup canned artichoke hearts, chopped
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of olive oil or nonstick spray to ensure easy removal of the bake later.
Step 2: Cook the ground beef In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onions until they are soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef (or turkey), breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned (about 7-10 minutes). Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the spinach and artichoke mix In the same skillet, add the fresh spinach (or drained frozen spinach). Cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the spinach artichoke dip-inspired sauce In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix thoroughly until smooth. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine the rice, ground beef, and sauce In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, browned ground beef, and the prepared spinach artichoke dip-inspired sauce. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Add 1/2 cup of grated mozzarella and 1/2 cup of Parmesan to the mixture for an extra cheesy flavor.
Step 6: Assemble the rice bake Transfer the mixture into the greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the dish.
Step 7: Prepare and add the topping For the topping, mix together the cooked spinach, chopped artichokes, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. Evenly distribute this mixture over the rice and beef base in the baking dish.
Step 8: Bake Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
Step 9: Serve Allow the bake to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sodium: 850mg
- Protein: 22g