The Most Delicious Dinner in 10 Minutes: Grandmother’s Layered Casserole Recipe

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The Most Delicious Dinner in 10 Minutes: Grandmother’s Layered Casserole Recipe

When time is short but comfort food is calling, Grandmother’s Layered Casserole is the answer. This warm, cheesy, and savory dish has been passed down for generations—and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a family favorite. With tender seasoned meat, fluffy rice, rich tomato sauce, and melty cheese, every bite is a cozy hug in food form. And the best part? It comes together in just 10 minutes of prep.

Whether you're a busy parent juggling weeknight dinners, a college student on a budget, or just someone craving nostalgic comfort food, this casserole is about to become your go-to.

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⭐ Why This Layered Casserole Is Irresistible

Quick & Easy: Just 10 minutes of prep—perfect for hectic evenings.

Versatile: Use any type of rice or protein. Add veggies, change cheeses—make it your own.

Hearty & Satisfying: A full, balanced meal in one baking dish.

Family-Approved: Loved by kids and adults alike. A guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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🛒 Ingredients & What They Do

Base Layer: Rice

2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine): Acts as the hearty, fluffy foundation of your casserole. Rice soaks up the sauce and brings balance to the richness of the meat and cheese.

Meat Layer

1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and brown the meat.

1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that builds the base of your sauce.

1 lb ground beef or ground turkey: The star protein—rich, filling, and savory. Choose lean meat to keep things lighter.

1 teaspoon salt & ½ teaspoon black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.

1 teaspoon dried basil & 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic herbs that add depth and that comforting Italian-style flavor.

1 ½ cups tomato sauce: Brings moisture and acidity to balance the richness of the meat and cheese.

Cheese Layer

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully to create that gooey, stretchy top layer everyone loves.

Optional: ½ cup grated Parmesan: Adds a salty, nutty finish for extra flavor.

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🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make It

1. Cook Your Rice

If you haven’t already, cook 2 cups of rice according to package directions. White, brown, or jasmine rice all work beautifully. Set it aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Stir in the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up as it cooks.

Once browned and fully cooked, season with salt, pepper, basil, and oregano.

Pour in the tomato sauce and let it simmer for 5 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.

3. Assemble the Layers

In a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer your ingredients:

First Layer: Spread the cooked rice evenly across the bottom.

Second Layer: Spoon the meat and sauce mixture over the rice.

Top Layer: Sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan if using.

4. Bake the Casserole

Place in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Let It Rest

Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers hold together perfectly when serving.

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💡 Pro Tips for the Best Casserole

Make it ahead: Prep in the morning, refrigerate, and pop it in the oven when you get home.

Add veggies: Sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach blend in beautifully.

Use leftover rice: A perfect way to repurpose last night’s side dish.

Cheese variations: Try cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a twist.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Complete your meal with these easy sides:

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette to cut the richness.

Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices for a crunchy contrast.

A side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini for added nutrition.

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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Casserole Forever

There’s something undeniably magical about a meal that’s simple to make, yet tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Grandmother’s Layered Casserole combines pantry staples with love and tradition to create a dish that satisfies every time. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together, makes second helpings inevitable, and leftovers (if there are any!) even better the next day.

Whether it’s your first time making it or your fiftieth, this casserole is a timeless, comforting classic. And now, it can be yours.

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🔁 Try It Tonight — Your New Favorite Dinner Awaits

With just a handful of ingredients and under 10 minutes of active prep, this dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both weeknight-friendly and soul-satisfying, look no further than Grandmother’s Layered Casserole.

Try it once—and we guarantee it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

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