This cheesy ground beef and cauliflower rice casserole is a warm, tasty dish that’s perfect for family dinner. The savory beef mixes well with cheesy goodness and tender cauliflower, making everyone happy!
You can sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing. Sometimes, I think my kids just love the cheese! It’s so easy to make—I just layer everything and pop it in the oven. Simple as that!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This recipe calls for 1 lb of ground beef, which adds richness. If you prefer a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken instead. They offer similar texture with fewer calories.
Cauliflower Rice: Fresh or frozen cauliflower rice works great here. If you can’t find cauliflower rice, use regular rice or even quinoa, but adjust the cooking time accordingly since they require more time to cook.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice touch but if not available, frozen spinach is a good substitute. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you want a healthier option or need it to be dairy-free, try using a homemade version with almond milk and mushrooms blended together.
Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese: I love the combination for its melty goodness. If you’re looking for alternatives, blend some provolone or gouda for a different flavor profile. Vegan cheese can also work well for a dairy-free version.
How Do I Cook the Ground Beef Perfectly?
Cooking ground beef may seem straightforward, but there are some tips to ensure it’s flavorful and well-cooked. Make sure to break up the meat while cooking so it browns evenly. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet and add olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and garlic first and sauté until soft.
- Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Breaking it up as you go helps it cook evenly.
Always drain excess fat if you’re using higher-fat beef to keep your casserole from becoming greasy.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Cauliflower Rice Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cauliflower rice (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 10 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook, so you’ll need a total of about 35-40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and comforting meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the casserole!
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Season it with salt and pepper, and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked. Remember to break up the meat as it cooks for even browning and cooking.
4. Combine the Mixture:
Next, stir in the cauliflower rice, chopped spinach, cream of mushroom soup, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything well and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through and everything is combined nicely.
5. Transfer to Casserole Dish:
Take the skillet off the heat and transfer your beef and cauliflower mixture to a 9×13 inch casserole dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of your casserole. Yummy cheese is what makes this dish really special!
7. Bake:
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly—just heavenly!
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a lovely finishing touch!
Enjoy this hearty and cheesy casserole that’s perfect for a comforting dinner! It’s simple, tasty, and bound to be a hit with everyone at the table!
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as poultry may cook faster; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 3 months!
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to swap in other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli if you prefer. Just make sure to sauté them first so they soften before mixing them into the casserole.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing equal parts sour cream and broth (beef or vegetable) with some added seasonings like herbs and pepper. This will provide a creamy texture without altering the dish too much!
