Pizza-Rice Casserole
This hearty and delicious Pizza-Rice Casserole combines all the savory flavors of a classic pizza with the comforting texture of rice and cheese. A perfect choice for a weeknight dinner, this dish is easy to make, filling, and packed with a savory combination of beef, peppers, mozzarella, and a hint of spices. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a casual gathering, this casserole will surely be a hit. The layers of seasoned beef, creamy cottage cheese, and gooey mozzarella come together for an unforgettable meal.
Preparation & Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked brown rice | 2 cups |
| White rice | 1 1/2 cups |
| Cream-style cottage cheese | 1 cup |
| Green bell pepper, diced | 1 |
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Onion, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/4 cup |
| Tomato sauce | 2 cups |
| Sugar | 2 teaspoons |
| Dried parsley | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Mozzarella cheese, shredded | 3/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520.1 kcal |
| Fat | 28.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 14.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 107.2 mg |
| Sodium | 1078.9 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 28.6 g |
| Fiber | 2.9 g |
| Sugar | 6.5 g |
| Protein | 37.6 g |
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
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Prepare your baking dish by greasing a 13 x 9-inch or 11 x 7-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
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Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pan and cook until the onions are softened and the beef is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Once the beef is browned, season with salt and pepper to taste, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for an added flavor boost.
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Prepare the sauce: Stir the tomato sauce into the beef mixture, then add the sugar, dried parsley, and oregano. Mix well. Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and thicken slightly.
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Prepare the rice mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked brown rice and white rice. Add the cream-style cottage cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, you can add an extra 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the rice mixture for additional creaminess and flavor.
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Assemble the casserole: Take about one-third of the rice mixture and spread it evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer all of the diced green bell pepper over the rice mixture, followed by one-third of the beef and tomato sauce mixture.
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Layer the casserole: Continue layering the remaining rice mixture, green peppers, and beef mixture, ending with the last layer of the beef and sauce mixture on top.
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Bake the casserole: Cover the casserole with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and enjoy your delicious Pizza-Rice Casserole with a side salad or your favorite vegetable for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
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Rice options: You can use any type of rice you prefer, but using a mix of brown rice and white rice gives a great texture. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor, while white rice keeps things soft and creamy.
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Vegetarian variation: For a vegetarian version, omit the ground beef and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
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Cheese lovers: Add extra mozzarella cheese for a cheesier casserole. You can also sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a golden, crispy topping.
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Freezing: This casserole freezes well. After assembling, cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
Enjoy this family-friendly dish that brings together all the flavors of a pizza in a hearty and comforting casserole!
