Ultimate Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake

This Ultimate Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake is one of my favorite cozy casseroles—it’s hearty, creamy, and packed with savory flavor. Tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and fluffy rice are baked together in a luscious cream sauce, then finished with melty cheddar cheese on top. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes the whole house smell amazing and brings everyone running to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it combines the best of everything—protein, veggies, grains, and a creamy sauce—all in one pan. It’s a balanced meal that’s rich and indulgent without being complicated. The beef and mushrooms give it depth, the rice soaks up all the flavor, and the creamy sauce ties it together perfectly. Best of all, it’s easy enough for a weeknight but satisfying enough for a Sunday dinner.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 lb mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups long-grain rice
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme if available)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. I sear the beef stew meat on all sides until browned, then remove it from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, I add the onions and mushrooms, cooking until softened and lightly browned. I stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
4. I sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture, stirring for about a minute to remove the raw flour taste.
5. I gradually whisk in the beef broth, then the heavy cream, stirring until the sauce thickens slightly. I season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. I stir in the uncooked rice and the seared beef, mixing everything well.
7. I transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
8. I remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
9. I let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings and takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes total (including baking time).

Variations

• I sometimes add baby spinach or peas for extra veggies.
• For a smoky flavor, I use smoked cheddar instead of regular.
• I’ve swapped beef for chicken thighs when I want a lighter version.
• A pinch of red pepper flakes adds subtle heat to balance the creaminess.
• If I want a crusty top, I sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan over the cheese before baking.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I bake covered at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions with a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months—I just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, but I reduce the broth by half and shorten the baking time to 20–25 minutes since the rice won’t need to cook through.

What cut of beef works best?

I like stew meat or chuck roast cut into cubes—they become tender during baking. Lean cuts like sirloin also work but may be less juicy.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble everything up to the baking step, refrigerate, then bake when ready. I just add 10 extra minutes of cook time if starting from cold.

Can I substitute the cream?

Yes, half-and-half works for a lighter sauce, though it won’t be quite as rich. Evaporated milk is another good option.

What sides go well with this casserole?

I usually pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, since the casserole itself is hearty and filling.

Conclusion

This Ultimate Creamy Beef & Mushroom Rice Bake is one of those recipes that delivers pure comfort in every bite. It’s rich, satisfying, and easy to prepare, making it a dish I turn to again and again. Whether I’m cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole always hits the spot.

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