Name: Creamy Beef and Mushroom Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-488150H31M45S
Total time: PT-488150H31M45S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup uncooked minute rice; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 8 ounces mushrooms, chopped; 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup; ½ cup sour cream; 1 cup beef broth; 1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crumbled; ¼ cup butter, melted

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A comforting and hearty casserole featuring savory beef, tender mushrooms, creamy sauce, and a crunchy Ritz cracker topping. Quick to prepare and perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This casserole brings together rich, savory flavors and satisfying textures. It’s a one-dish wonder that combines meat, veggies, grains, and creamy sauce with minimal effort. The buttery Ritz topping adds a crowd-pleasing crunch. It’s delicious, comforting, and easy enough for any weeknight.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked minute rice
1 medium yellow onion, diced
8 ounces mushrooms, chopped
10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup
½ cup sour cream
1 cup beef broth
1 sleeve Ritz crackers, crumbled
¼ cup butter, melted

Directions

Cook Beef, Onion, and Mushrooms
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion and chopped mushrooms until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent. Drain any fat.
Combine Casserole Base
Transfer the beef mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, minute rice, and beef broth until everything is evenly mixed.
Add Topping
Sprinkle the crumbled Ritz crackers evenly over the casserole. Drizzle melted butter over the cracker crumbs.
Bake
Bake at 350°F for 30–40 minutes, uncovered, until the rice is tender and the topping is golden and crisp.

Servings And Timing

Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–40 minutes
Total Time: 40–50 minutes

Variations

Substitute cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist—sprinkle on top before baking
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of minute rice (increase cooking time and liquid accordingly)
Add green peas or chopped bell peppers to the casserole for extra veggies
Swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or celery for a different flavor
Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if needed to refresh the texture.
This casserole freezes well—store in freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of minute rice?

Yes—use 2 cups cooked rice and reduce broth slightly. Bake until heated through.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Is there a low-carb version?

You can skip the rice and add extra mushrooms or cauliflower rice. Bake until heated through.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Replace ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.

What if I don’t have Ritz crackers?

Use crushed breadcrumbs or crumbled saltine crackers instead.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup, crackers, and broth, and substitute rice with quinoa if needed.

How do I know when it’s done?

The casserole is done when the rice is tender and the top is golden brown.

Can I add spices?

Sure—mix in garlic powder, thyme, or smoked paprika for additional flavor.

Does the casserole thicken as it sits?

Yes, it will firm up as it cools. Reheat with a bit of broth to restore creaminess.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes—use a larger dish and increase baking time as needed until rice is tender.

Conclusion

This Creamy Beef and Mushroom Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make meal that delivers flavor, texture, and heartiness in every bite. With rich creamy sauce and a buttery crispy topping, it’s a satisfying dinner the whole family will enjoy. Perfect for busy nights or cozy gatherings!

Maggie