Craving a mouthwatering meal that'll transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coastline? Get ready to fall in love with the ultimate comfort food that combines hearty ground beef, nutty brown rice, and tangy feta cheese in one irresistible casserole! This recipe isn't just another dinner option – it's a flavor-packed journey that will have your family begging for seconds and your dinner guests asking for the recipe. Imagine a dish that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious, ready in just 40 minutes and perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something spectacular without spending hours in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure the beef is cooked through and no longer pink.
- Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), cooked brown rice, oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined, allowing the flavors to meld. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 3/4 cup of the crumbled feta cheese, reserving the remaining 1/4 cup for topping.
- Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9x13 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle the reserved feta cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cheese to get slightly golden and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set up a bit.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired Beef with Brown Rice and Feta Casserole!
Tips
- To make this Beef with Brown Rice and Feta Casserole absolutely perfect, keep these pro tips in mind:• Use freshly cooked brown rice for the best texture and flavor – avoid using day-old or cold rice. • Drain the ground beef thoroughly to prevent a greasy casserole. • For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or using fire-roasted diced tomatoes. • Don't skip letting the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking – this helps the dish set and makes serving easier. • Feel free to experiment with different herbs like fresh parsley or basil for garnishing. • If you prefer a crispier top, you can briefly broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking. • Opt for high-quality feta cheese for the most authentic Mediterranean taste.Pro Cooking Hack: Want to make this dish even more special? Try using grass-fed beef and organic feta for an elevated flavor profile that'll make this casserole truly restaurant-worthy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 75mg
