Spanish Rice Casserole: A Flavorful and Versatile Dish
Welcome to “Love With Recipes,” where we transform everyday ingredients into unforgettable meals. This Spanish Rice Casserole is a perfect example of a dish that’s not only easy to make but incredibly versatile, making it ideal for any meal, whether served hot or at room temperature. Let’s dive into the steps that will help you create this delightful recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef: This provides a hearty base for the casserole.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds a sweet and savory depth of flavor.
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced: For a rich, aromatic touch.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Introduces a fresh, crisp element.
- 1 cup diced tomatoes: Adds juiciness and tang.
- 1 cup water: Helps cook the rice and meld the flavors.
- 1 cup long-grain rice: The main ingredient that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- 1/2 cup chili sauce: Provides a sweet and spicy kick.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Balances out the tanginess of the tomatoes and chili sauce.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds an earthy, warm spice note.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Infuses a savory, umami flavor.
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese: Melts to form a delicious, gooey topping.
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal touch.
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature for baking your casserole.
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Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 2-quart casserole dish. This step is crucial to prevent the casserole from sticking and makes for easier cleanup.
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Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Once done, transfer the beef to a large pot set over medium-low heat.
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Combine Ingredients: Into the pot with the beef, stir in the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, diced green bell pepper, and diced tomatoes. Pour in the water and add the long-grain rice, chili sauce, brown sugar, ground cumin, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients well.
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Simmer the Mixture: Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process helps the rice cook and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Transfer to Baking Dish: Once the mixture has simmered and the rice is cooked, transfer everything into the prepared 2-quart casserole dish. Press the mixture down firmly with a spatula to ensure an even layer.
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Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will melt and become bubbly during baking, creating a deliciously cheesy crust.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
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Garnish and Serve: If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor and color. Serve the casserole hot or at room temperature.
Tips for Perfection
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding finely chopped jalapeño pepper or crushed chili pepper to the mixture.
- Make-Ahead Option: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time. Simply assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 579.9
- Fat: 31.7g
- Saturated Fat: 15.7g
- Cholesterol: 121.6mg
- Sodium: 833.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 36.1g
- Fiber: 4.4g
- Sugar: 9.6g
- Protein: 35.7g
This Spanish Rice Casserole is a delightful blend of savory ground beef, aromatic spices, and a gooey cheese topping that will surely become a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this dish promises to satisfy. Enjoy every bite of this comforting and flavorful casserole! 🌟🍲🧀
