Savory Meat and Vegetable Casserole

This delicious meat and vegetable casserole is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Combining layers of tender boiled rice, ground meat prepared like hamburgers, and a variety of vegetables, this dish is both hearty and nutritious. The layers of cooked carrots, zucchini, cauliflower, and cabbages not only add vibrant colors but also rich flavors. Enveloped in a flavorful broth and topped with small butter dollops, each bite is delightfully savory and moist. The casserole is baked to perfection, ensuring all ingredients meld beautifully together. It’s an efficient dish to prepare, requiring minimal active prep time but delivering maximum taste. Ideal for crafting in advance, this dish can easily serve as a main course when paired with simple side dishes. With its comforting taste, this casserole brings warmth to any table. Prepare it once, and it will surely become a favorite in your home during the colder months.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 500g ground meat (prepared like hamburger patties)
• 2 cups cooked carrots, sliced
• 2 small zucchinis, sliced
• 1 cup cauliflower florets
• 1 cup chopped cabbage
• 2 cups vegetable broth (reserved from cooking the vegetables)
• Small dollops of butter (approximately 2 tablespoons)

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 70 minutes (Prep: 15 minutes, Cook: 55 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Prepare the vegetables: Boil and slice the carrots; slice the zucchinis; chop the cauliflower into florets, and finely chop the cabbage.
3. Grease a baking dish with a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
4. Layer the vegetables: Start by arranging the cooked carrot slices and zucchini in the prepared dish.
5. Add the cauliflower and then create a layer with chopped cabbage on top of the initial layer.
6. Spread the prepared ground meat over the vegetables. It's best if the meat is evenly distributed across the dish.
7. Add a layer of cooked rice on top of the meat.
8. Pour the reserved broth evenly over the top, ensuring it seeps through the layers.
9. Add small butter dollops across the surface to enhance the richness and moisture.
10. Pierce the casserole gently with a fork in several places to help the broth reach the bottom layer.
11. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil or a lid if available.
12. Place the dish into the preheated oven. Bake for about 45-55 minutes until everything is cooked through and golden on top.
13. Remove the cover or foil for the last 10 minutes to allow the top to crisp up slightly if desired.
14. Check the casserole by inserting a fork to ensure everything is tender to your liking.
15. Once fully baked, let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
16. Carefully slice the casserole for serving.
17. Serve warm, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for extra freshness.
18. Enjoy the casserole on its own or with additional side dishes.
19. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days.
20. Reheat leftovers in an oven or microwave until thoroughly warmed.

Tips

• Substitute ground meat with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add cheese: Sprinkle with shredded cheese on top for a cheesy twist.
• Use fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for added aroma.
• A drizzle of cream over the casserole just before serving can add an indulgent touch.
• Reserve some broth or make extra to re-moisten leftovers before reheating.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approx. 450 per serving
• Proteins: 35g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable stock.
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the ground meat mixture.
• Gluten-free: Ensure broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad and a slice of crusty bread.
• Pair with a glass of light red wine like Pinot Noir.
• Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

Best Places

• Bistro Onze - A cozy spot with warm casseroles. Location: 11 Rue Fossés Saint-Jacques, Paris, France.
• The Casserole House - Known for generous portions and cozy vibes. Location: 750 W Webster Ave, Chicago, USA.
• La Cocotte - Offers a classic European touch to casseroles. Location: 240 Rue Saint-Martin, Brussels, Belgium.
• Hotpot Haven - Unique twists on traditional casseroles. Location: 201 Plaza Singapura, Orchard Rd, Singapore.
• Oven Delights - Rustic flavors in every dish. Location: 18 Vulturului St, Bucharest, Romania.
• Comfort Bites Cafe - Homemade-style dishes with local ingredients. Location: 956 Old Calder Hwy, Melbourne, Australia.
• The Hearth and Home - Combining tradition and innovation in their casseroles. Location: 457 Thames St, London, UK.
• Rustic Pan - Known for its family-friendly atmosphere. Location: 102 Duong 3/2, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
• Delightful Plates - A vegetarian-friendly spot for casserole lovers. Location: 33 Nikolskaya St, Moscow, Russia.
• Homestyle Casseroles - Traditional recipes passed down through generations. Location: 78 Yonge St, Toronto, Canada.