Description
This Sloppy Joe Sour Cream Rice Bake is a comforting casserole combining savory seasoned ground beef with creamy cottage cheese and sour cream, layered over fluffy cooked rice and topped with melted cheddar cheese. A quick and easy baked dish perfect for a hearty family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Sauce
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 (1.31-oz) packet sloppy joe seasoning
- 1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce
Dairy and Rice Mixture
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Dish: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and lightly spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Brown the lean ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain off any excess fat, return the beef to the skillet, then add the sloppy joe seasoning packet and tomato sauce. Stir well and let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to develop flavor.
- Mix Cottage Cheese and Rice: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked rice, cottage cheese, and sour cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly mixed.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread the rice and cottage cheese mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spoon the sloppy joe beef mixture over the top of the rice layer, spreading it out to cover thoroughly. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.
- Bake the Dish: Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and keep the dish healthier.
- You can substitute cooked white rice with brown rice for added fiber.
- For a creamier texture, use full-fat cottage cheese and sour cream.
- Add chopped onions or bell peppers to the beef while cooking for extra flavor and vegetables.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
