Missouri Casserole

There’s something so heartwarming about a homemade casserole, especially one that warms both your belly and your soul. This Missouri casserole is the perfect addition to your family meals, combining comforting flavors and textures in a single dish. You’ll find it’s a delightful mix of hearty ingredients that bring everyone to the table, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Let’s dive into this delicious Missouri casserole recipe together.

Casserole recipes have been a staple in American kitchens for generations, often bringing back fond memories of family gatherings and potluck dinners. The Missouri casserole boasts a rich variety of flavors; it’s packed with layers of meat, vegetables, and creamy sauces. This dish is not only easy to make but also offers versatile ingredients you can adapt based on what you have at home. Plus, one of the best parts about cooking this dish is that your kitchen will be filled with an inviting aroma that will have the family asking, “What’s for dinner?” long before it’s ready.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 cup diced onion
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (feel free to swap with your favorites)
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole will cook evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2:

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion. Stir occasionally until the meat is fully cooked and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3:

Drain any excess fat from the meat mixture, then add the frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, and cooked rice. Mix everything gently until well combined. Season this mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4:

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Smooth out the top so it cooks evenly.

Step 5:

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

Step 6:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 7:

Once done, let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This dish tastes even better the following day, so if you have leftovers, you’re in for a treat.

Nutritional Information

This Missouri casserole is not only delicious but also offers a balance of nutrients. A serving can provide approximately 350 calories, 20 grams of protein, and essential vitamins from the mixed vegetables. Of course, this can vary based on the ingredients you choose.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for a lighter take, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and swap cream of mushroom soup for a low-fat version or a homemade creamy sauce. You can also add more vegetables or substitute quinoa for rice to boost the dish’s fiber content.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Missouri casserole experience, serve it alongside a fresh green salad, or add some warm, crusty bread on the side. Want to spice things up? A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top can add an extra layer of flavor that everyone will love.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake is not allowing enough time for the casserole to cool before serving. Letting it rest will help it set, making it easier to scoop out servings. Also, do not skip the foil during part of the baking; keeping it covered helps to keep your casserole moist throughout the cooking process.

Chef’s Notes

• For a smoky flavor, add a little smoked paprika to the meat mixture.
• Thinking about leftovers? This casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to a month.
• If you enjoy variety, try adding different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a cheesy spin.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I prepare this Missouri casserole ahead of time?
  A1: Absolutely; You can assemble it earlier in the day or even the night before. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Q2: What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
  A2: No worries. You can substitute it with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade cream sauce using flour, butter, and milk.
• Q3: Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
  A3: Yes, simply replace the ground beef with a mix of beans and add more vegetables to create a fulfilling vegetarian dish.

This Missouri casserole is truly a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any family gathering. For more delicious, easy-to-make casseroles, you might also love checking out my Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole, or for a different flavor profile, try the Amish Sunday Savior Casserole. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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