Cuban Casserole: A Delicious and Effortless Family Favorite

I’ll never forget the first time my grandma made her famous Cuban Casserole. It was a chilly autumn evening, and the aroma of simmering spices and sizzling ground beef wafted through the entire house. As I walked into the kitchen, I could practically taste the blend of smoky paprika, earthy cumin, and fragrant oregano.

Grandma would always insist that I help her prepare the casserole, carefully guiding me through each step. I loved how the simple ingredients transformed into something so flavorful and comforting. The way the rice soaked up all the savory juices, the melted cheddar cheese that oozed over the top – it was pure Cuban comfort food bliss.

To this day, whenever I make Cuban Casserole, it transports me right back to Grandma’s cozy kitchen. The nostalgic flavors and familiar ritual of preparation make it one of my all-time favorite dishes. And I’m excited to share this recipe with you, because I know it’ll become a new go-to in your household too.

Why This Cuban Casserole Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Cuban Casserole

The key to an authentic, mouthwatering Cuban Casserole lies in the perfect balance of spices. Many recipes skimp on the bold flavors, leaving you with a flat, one-dimensional dish. But not this one! I’ve meticulously tested and tweaked the spice blend to create a casserole that truly embodies the vibrant, aromatic essence of Cuban cuisine.

The combination of earthy cumin, fragrant oregano, and smoky paprika infuses every bite with layers of flavor. And the diced tomatoes add a bright, acidic note that cuts through the richness of the ground beef and melted cheese. Trust me, one spoonful and you’ll be hooked!

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef: The foundation of the dish, providing heartiness and savory depth.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and aromatic complexity to the casserole.
• 1 bell pepper, diced: Lends a crunchy texture and subtle sweetness.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its pungent, earthy notes.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: An essential spice in Cuban cuisine, delivering an earthy, warm, and slightly smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon oregano: Adds a fragrant, slightly minty element to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness and vibrant reddish-orange color.
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes: Contributes acidity and juiciness to balance the richness of the casserole.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice: Soaks up all the delicious flavors and creates a satisfying, hearty base.
• 2 cups chicken or beef broth: Helps the rice cook to fluffy perfection.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The melted cheese on top adds a creamy, indulgent finish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors.

Step-by-Step Cuban Casserole Instructions

Preparing Your Cuban Casserole

With a total time of just 45 minutes – 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cook time – this Cuban Casserole recipe is the perfect solution for a quick, satisfying weeknight meal. All you’ll need is a large skillet or Dutch oven, a cutting board, and a few basic kitchen tools.

1- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it browns, about 5-7 minutes.

2- Once the beef is cooked through, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant.

3- Next, add the minced garlic, cumin, oregano, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas.

4- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juices, and the rice. Stir to coat the rice in the tomato mixture, then pour in the broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.

5- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

6- Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Enjoy your delicious Cuban Casserole!

Pro Tips for Success

1. Use high-quality ground beef for maximum flavor. Look for a lean blend with a nice beefy aroma.
2. Sauté the onion and bell pepper until they’re softened but still have a bit of crunch. This adds great texture to the dish.
3. Be sure to let the spices toast and bloom in the skillet for 1-2 minutes before adding the other ingredients. This enhances their flavor.
4. Keep a close eye on the rice as it bakes. You want it to be tender but not mushy. Adjust the baking time as needed.
5. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to set up nicely.

Serving and Storing Your Cuban Casserole

Perfect Pairings for Cuban Casserole

This hearty Cuban Casserole serves 6 people and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. For a classic Cuban-inspired meal, serve it alongside a simple salad with a citrusy vinaigrette, some crispy plantain chips, and an ice-cold mojito or Cuba Libre.

The casserole also complements black beans and rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh mango salsa. And don’t forget the hot sauce – a drizzle of spicy Cuban-style sauce, like Cholula or Mazi, takes this dish to the next level.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Cuban Casserole is the perfect dish to make ahead or enjoy as leftovers. Once baked, let the casserole cool completely, then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

For longer-term storage, Cuban Casserole also freezes beautifully. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven as directed above.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cuban Casserole

Creative Cuban Casserole Variations

While this classic Cuban Casserole recipe is pretty darn perfect as-is, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it:

• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or shredded chicken for a leaner protein option.
• Use a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese for a creamier, more melty topping.
• Add diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Stir in some black beans or kidney beans for extra heartiness.
• Top the casserole with crispy fried onions or crushed tortilla chips for crunch.
• Serve the casserole over cauliflower rice or quinoa for a low-carb twist.

Making Cuban Casserole Diet-Friendly

This Cuban Casserole recipe can easily be adapted to suit various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free broth and make sure your diced tomatoes are also gluten-free.

To make it dairy-free, swap out the cheddar cheese for your favorite non-dairy cheese or omit it altogether. You can also use olive oil instead of butter when sautéing the vegetables.

For a low-carb adaptation, replace the white rice with riced cauliflower or diced zucchini. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as needed to ensure the vegetables are tender.

And for our vegan friends, substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu or plant-based ground “meat,” and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of rice besides long-grain white?
A: Absolutely! You can swap in other varieties of rice, such as brown rice, basmati, or even quinoa. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to account for the different grains.

Q: How long does the Cuban Casserole take to prep and cook?
A: This Cuban Casserole recipe has a total time of 45 minutes – 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cook time. It’s a quick and easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, Cuban Casserole is a great make-ahead dish. You can prepare the entire casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 4 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed.

Q: How many servings does this Cuban Casserole recipe make?
A: This recipe makes 6 generous servings of Cuban Casserole. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or providing leftovers for the week.

Q: What should I do if the rice isn’t cooked through after the recommended baking time?
A: If the rice isn’t quite tender after 20-25 minutes in the oven, simply cover the casserole and return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to ensure the rice doesn’t overcook.

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Conclusion

Cuban Casserole is a true comfort food classic that’s guaranteed to become a new family favorite. With its bold, flavor-packed spices, tender ground beef, and melty cheese topping, this casserole is an irresistible dish that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Havana.

What I love most about this recipe is how the simple, humble ingredients transform into something so incredibly delicious and satisfying. It’s the perfect meal to share with loved ones, whether you’re reminiscing about Grandma’s kitchen or trying to bring a taste of Cuba to your own table.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to experience the magic of Cuban Casserole. I promise it’ll become a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again. And don’t forget to leave a comment below – I’d love to hear how your Cuban Casserole turned out!