Rice Casserole with Minced Meat and Beans

This delightful rice casserole with minced meat and beans is a comforting dish that brings together rich flavors and delightful textures. The combination of savory minced meat, wholesome beans, and fluffy rice creates a hearty meal that is satisfying and fulfilling. A touch of mozzarella cheese adds a creamy and gooey element, transforming each bite into pure indulgence. The dish is seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, adding layers of flavor that make this casserole irresistibly tasty. Fresh tomatoes and spring onions contribute a burst of freshness, while sweet corn provides a contrast in texture and taste. The casserole is baked to perfection, achieving a beautiful blend of flavors. Ideal for a family gathering or a cozy dinner, this casserole is as nutritious as it is delicious. Serve it with a tangy and slightly spicy sour cream sauce to complete the dish.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

125 g rice
200 g minced meat
2 ripe tomatoes
1 bunch of spring onions (can substitute with leek)
1 small can of corn
1 can of brown beans
1 clove of garlic
2 balls of mozzarella cheese (each 125 g)
2 tablespoons of oil
Salt
Pepper

Sauce for Serving

150 g sour cream
2 teaspoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon brown sugar
A pinch of salt
Chili powder to taste

Preparation Time

Total: 50 minutes (includes prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Cook the Rice: Begin by boiling salted water in a pot, adding the rice, and cooking it as per the package instructions until done. Set aside.
Prepare the Tomatoes: Blanch the tomatoes in hot water for a minute, peel the skin, remove the stem area, and chop them into small cubes.
Chop the Spring Onions: Clean the spring onions and chop them into rings. If using leeks, slice them thinly.
Drain the Beans and Corn: Pour the beans into a colander, rinse, and let them drain well. Do the same with the corn.
Cube the Mozzarella: Cut the mozzarella balls into small cubes.
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (about 390 degrees Fahrenheit) to preheat while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
Sauté the Minced Meat: In a skillet, heat the oil and sauté the minced meat with the chopped spring onions until browned and aromatic.
Combine with Rice: Add the cooked rice to the skillet and sauté everything together for a few minutes.
Season the Mixture: Press the garlic clove into the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add Vegetables and Cheese: Stir in the beans, tomatoes, corn, and mozzarella cubes gently to mix everything evenly.
Prepare a Baking Dish: Grease a casserole dish and spread the rice and meat mixture evenly in it.
Bake the Casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake at 180 degrees Celsius (about 356 degrees Fahrenheit) for 20 minutes.
Prepare the Sauce: While the casserole bakes, mix the sour cream with tomato paste, brown sugar, salt, and chili powder until smooth.
Serving Suggestion: Serve the casserole hot, paired with the prepared sauce, warm or cold, as per your preference. Enjoy your meal!

Tips

Substitutions: You can substitute the minced meat with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Garlic: Feel free to use more garlic if you prefer a stronger flavor.
Cheese: For a more robust cheese flavor, consider adding cheddar or gouda.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 450 calories per serving
Protein: 18 g
Fats: 26 g
Carbohydrates: 38 g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace minced meat with mixed vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini and increase the amount of beans for protein.
Spicy Twist: Add more chili powder or slice in fresh jalapeños for extra heat.
Cheesy Crust: Top the casserole with breadcrumbs mixed with grated parmesan for a crunchy crust.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Complement with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli.
Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top before serving.

Best Places

La Casserole Bistro - Known for its comfort food and cozy ambiance. Location: 123 Main St, New York, USA.
Gastro Delight - Offers a fusion of international dishes in a modern setting. Location: 45 Baker St, London, UK.
Culinary Corner - Famous for its casseroles and hearty meals. Location: 202 Food Ave, Melbourne, Australia.
The Cozy Kettle - A charming spot serving classic and comforting meals. Location: 78 Maple Rd, Toronto, Canada.
Spice Gourmet - Specializes in flavorful and creatively spiced dishes. Location: 56 Curry Lane, Mumbai, India.
Traditional Comforts - A popular spot for traditional and classic dishes. Location: 109 Old Town Rd, Edinburgh, Scotland.
Taste Haven - Known for innovative dishes with a twist. Location: 321 Gourmet St, Paris, France.
Authentic Plates - Offers dishes infused with authentic and diverse flavors. Location: 90 Aroma St, Cairo, Egypt.
Epicurean Table - A delight for those who love rich and varied meals. Location: 62 Fancy St, Tokyo, Japan.
Savory Haven - Boasts a wide variety of savory and delightful meals. Location: 11 Yummy Blvd, Cape Town, South Africa.