If you’re looking for a hearty and mouthwatering dinner that can be prepared in no time, you’re in the right place! This Layered Casserole recipe is one of my absolute favorites, passed down from my grandmother. It’s the kind of dish that brings back warm memories of family gatherings and the delicious smells filling the house.
Best of all? It’s a super simple and quick recipe — you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in just 10 minutes of prep time. It’s the perfect go-to recipe when you want something tasty but don’t have a lot of time on your hands. So, let’s dive into how to make this flavorful layered casserole.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
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2 cups cooked rice (white or brown, whichever you prefer)
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2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or more for a cheesy delight)
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 teaspoons dried basil
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 cup ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
How to Make This Easy and Delicious Casserole:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. You can use white, brown, or even jasmine rice — whatever your preference is. Set it aside to cool for a bit while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Cook the Meat:
In a large skillet, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it softens, which should take around 2-3 minutes. Then, toss in your ground beef (or turkey) and cook it through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. Once it’s fully cooked, season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Pour in the tomato sauce, stir well, and let it simmer on low heat for about 5 minutes. This is when the flavors meld together beautifully.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Now it’s time to layer everything in a casserole dish:
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Start by spreading an even layer of the cooked rice at the bottom of the dish.
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Next, add a layer of the seasoned meat mixture.
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Sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top of the meat.
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Repeat these layers (rice, meat, cheese) until you run out of ingredients, making sure to finish with a final layer of cheese on top.
4. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake it for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown on top. The casserole should be hot throughout and the layers beautifully melded together.
5. Let It Rest and Serve:
Once your casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into portions. The layers hold together wonderfully, making it easy to serve and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Quick and Easy: It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a fast, filling dinner.
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Customizable: You can swap out ingredients, add extra veggies, or make it lighter by using ground turkey or chicken.
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Comforting: With its cheesy, savory goodness and hearty layers, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
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Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for a family or a gathering of friends, everyone will love digging into this dish.
Final Thoughts:
This Layered Casserole has been a staple in my family for generations, and it’s easy to see why. With its combination of savory meat, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone just looking for a quick and comforting meal, this casserole recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen too.
Give it a try tonight, and I promise you won’t be disappointed!