Campbells Soup Tomato Rice Hamburger Casserole Recipe Delight
In the ever-evolving world of culinary delights, there's a comforting simplicity in dishes that require minimal ingredients yet produce maximum flavor. One such dish is the Campbell's Soup Tomato Rice Hamburger Casserole, a timeless recipe that has warmed many hearts and homes across the globe. This casserole stands out for its rich, hearty texture, and ease of preparation, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or when you're in the mood for something nostalgically delicious.
Why Choose This Casserole?
The beauty of this casserole lies in its versatility and simplicity. Here are a few reasons why it’s a beloved choice:
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of beef, tomato, and rice creates a comforting, home-cooked meal reminiscent of simpler times.
- Time Efficient: With fewer than 10 ingredients, this dish is straightforward to assemble and can be on your table in under an hour.
- Cost-Effective: It uses pantry staples like Campbell’s tomato soup, which often comes at an affordable price, making it a budget-friendly option.
Ingredients for Campbells Soup Tomato Rice Hamburger Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delicious casserole to life:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (10 3⁄4 ounces) Campbell’s Tomato Soup
- 1 1⁄2 cups water or beef broth
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional for added flavor)
- 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional for topping)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Let’s walk through how to make this delightful casserole:
- Pre-heat your oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion (and bell pepper and garlic if using) to the skillet, cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Mix in Soup and Liquid: Pour in the Campbell’s Tomato Soup and water or beef broth, stirring to combine. Allow this mixture to simmer for a couple of minutes.
- Combine with Rice: Stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it’s well distributed throughout the meat mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Bake: Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Cheese Topping: If you choose to use cheese, remove the foil after 30 minutes, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
Your Campbells Soup Tomato Rice Hamburger Casserole can be served in various ways to suit your family’s preferences:
- Serve it as is for a complete meal in itself.
- Pair it with a side salad for some extra greens.
- Offer a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess.
🔖 Note: If you find your rice isn't tender by the end of the cooking time, you can add a bit more liquid and cover the dish for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Every bite of this casserole brings a taste of home-cooked comfort with its rich tomato flavor, hearty texture, and easy-to-follow recipe. Whether it's for a family dinner, a gathering of friends, or just a quiet meal at home, this dish embodies warmth and satisfaction. Its adaptability to various tastes and dietary needs (without the cheese for a lighter option) makes it a go-to recipe in many households.
The steps outlined above ensure a straightforward path to creating a meal that is as fulfilling to prepare as it is to eat. While this casserole might seem simple, the depth of flavors developed through its cooking process is anything but ordinary. And with the potential for variations and personal touches, like adding herbs, extra vegetables, or a different kind of cheese, the recipe remains fresh and exciting, offering endless possibilities to suit your palate.
Finally, as you enjoy this casserole, remember that food is more than nourishment; it's a medium through which we share love, culture, and joy. Let this dish be more than a meal; let it be an experience, a moment to cherish with those you care about or a comforting companion on a solitary evening. Now, let's dive into some frequently asked questions about this cherished recipe:
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
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Yes, you can use brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and potentially add a bit more liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Can this casserole be made ahead of time?
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Absolutely, you can prepare it in advance. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it when you're ready to eat, which might require an additional 10-15 minutes if it's cold from the fridge.
How do I store leftovers?
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Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until hot all the way through.
Can I freeze this casserole?
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Yes, this casserole freezes well. Before baking, cover it tightly and freeze. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
There you have it - a simple yet deeply satisfying meal that brings the best of traditional cooking to your table. The Campbells Soup Tomato Rice Hamburger Casserole is more than just a recipe; it’s a gateway to creating memorable meals and moments. Enjoy the flavors, the warmth, and the joy of this culinary delight, knowing that each bite is steeped in tradition and love.