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Sloppy Rice

rice
/beef
/struggle-meals
2 min read

Sloppy Rice is the ultimate comfort food when you need something hearty, filling, and ridiculously simple to make. This no-fuss dish combines savory ground beef with fluffy rice in a rich, flavorful broth that melds together in the oven. It's what happens when a sloppy joe meets a casserole – unpretentious, deeply satisfying, and perfect for those nights when you need dinner to just work.

Notes​

  • total prep time: 15-20 minutes
  • total cook time: 60 minutes
  • Makes 2-4 portions depending on appetite
  • Great for meal prep – stays good in the fridge for 3-4 days
  • Freezes beautifully for future meals

Equipment​

  • Large skillet for browning meat
  • Casserole dish or oven-safe pan (2-3 quart capacity)
  • Measuring cup
  • Can opener
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Aluminum foil (optional, for covering)

Ingredients​

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 works great, but use what you have)
  • 1 cup uncooked white rice (long grain preferred)
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) beef broth
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) beef consommé
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
  • 1 can (4 oz) mushrooms, drained (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce for extra umami

Step-by-Step Instructions​

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until no pink remains (about 8-10 minutes).
  3. Drain excess fat if desired (a little fat adds flavor).
  4. Transfer the browned beef to your casserole dish.
  5. Add the uncooked rice and drained mushrooms to the dish, mixing with the beef.
  6. Pour in the beef broth, beef consommé, and French onion soup. Stir everything together until well combined.
  7. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  9. Remove from oven, let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations​

  • For extra flavor, add a diced bell pepper or onion when browning the meat
  • Serve with hard-boiled eggs for extra protein
  • A dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes adds a nice kick
  • Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version
  • Sprinkle with cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy top
  • Add a can of drained corn or peas for extra veggies
  • Serve with a side salad to round out the meal

Enjoy this low-effort, high-reward meal that proves simple ingredients can make something truly delicious!