Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake

Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake

Comforting • One-Pan • Mediterranean-Style

Description

This Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake combines lean beef, earthy mushrooms, and tender rice in a lightly creamy garlic-herb sauce inspired by Mediterranean flavors. Instead of heavy cream, it uses Greek yogurt and olive oil for richness without heaviness. It’s a cozy, family-friendly oven bake that works beautifully for meal prep or an easy weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

Main Bake

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef (90–93%)

• 1½ cups mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)

• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp dried thyme

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Creamy Layer

• ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped

Optional Topping

• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella or kefalotyri

• Extra parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Cook the Beef & Mushrooms

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Sauté onion until soft (3–4 minutes).

3. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release moisture.

4. Add ground beef, breaking it up, and cook until browned.

5. Season with paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

3. Assemble the Bake

1. Spread uncooked rice evenly in the baking dish.

2. Pour beef & mushroom mixture over rice.

3. Add beef broth and gently stir to combine.

4. Bake

• Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40–45 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.

5. Add Creamy Layer

1. Mix Greek yogurt, Parmesan, olive oil, and herbs.

2. Spread over the hot rice bake.

3. Sprinkle cheese on top if using.

6. Finish Baking

• Return uncovered to oven for 10–12 minutes, until lightly golden.

7. Serve

• Rest 5 minutes, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

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Nutrition Highlights (Approx. per serving)

• Protein: ~32–35 g

• Healthy fats: Olive oil & yogurt

• Balanced carbs: Rice for steady energy

• Mediterranean herbs & antioxidants from mushrooms and garlic

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Q & A

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white?
A: Yes, but increase broth to 2½ cups and bake 10–15 minutes longer.

Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
A: Yes! Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.

Q: Can I make it dairy-light?
A: You can reduce yogurt by half or use lactose-free Greek yogurt.

Q: What vegetables can I add?
A: Zucchini, spinach, or peas work very well and stay Mediterranean-friendly.

Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Absolutely. Assemble, cover, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.