Description
This Cheesy Meatballs and Rice Casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal featuring flavorful browned meatballs nestled in a creamy mushroom soup and chicken broth-infused rice base, topped with melted mozzarella and cheddar cheeses. Perfectly seasoned with garlic, onion, thyme, and paprika, this baked casserole is an easy-to-make family favorite that’s hearty and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Casserole
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Prepare Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated. Shape the mixture into small, uniform meatballs for even cooking.
- Brown Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides. You don’t need to cook them through at this stage; just achieve a good sear for flavor and color.
- Assemble Casserole Base: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In the dish, combine the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, dried thyme, and paprika. Stir well to distribute all ingredients evenly.
- Add Meatballs: Arrange the browned meatballs on top of the rice mixture, spacing them evenly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the rice to cook through and flavors to meld while the meatballs finish cooking.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil carefully. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh contrast. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty, cheesy meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meat option.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the soup is gluten-free.
- If you prefer a creamier casserole, add an extra 1/4 cup of chicken broth.
- Feel free to add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the rice mixture for added nutrition.
- Make sure to cover the casserole while baking to allow the rice to cook properly and retain moisture.
