Baked Italian Rice Ball Casserole with Ground Beef
A hearty Italian-inspired casserole that transforms the classic arancini concept into a family-friendly baked dish. Layers of creamy Arborio rice mixed with Parmesan and savory ground beef in red sauce create comfort food perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. The golden breadcrumb topping adds textural contrast while keeping the interior moist and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Arborio rice
- 4 cups water
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 white onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups red sauce, dividedmarinara sauce1:1sauce
similar flavor profile
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup Panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 400 F
- 2
Cook rice with water according to package directions, then stir in Parmesan cheese and set aside to cool
- 3
Heat olive oil in skillet and sauté diced onion for 3 minutes
- 4
Add minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes
- 5
Add ground beef and cook until browned
- 6
Mix in 2 cups red sauce with the beef mixture
- 7
Combine rice with remaining 1 cup red sauce
- 8
Layer half the rice mixture in greased baking dish and press down
- 9
Add half the beef mixture on top, then layer remaining rice and beef
- 10
Melt butter in small skillet and cook breadcrumbs until golden-brown
- 11
Top casserole with golden breadcrumbs
- 12
Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes
- 13
Serve with additional Parmesan cheese
Tips
Press the rice layers firmly to help the casserole hold its shape when serving.
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow layers to set before cutting.
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered up to 3 days
Assemble casserole up to 1 day ahead, cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready
Cut into squares and serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese
Common Mistakes
Don't skip cooling the rice to avoid melting the cheese too quickly
Press rice layers firmly to prevent casserole from falling apart when serving
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, freeze assembled unbaked casserole up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before baking, adding 5-10 extra minutes to cook time.
What if I don't have Arborio rice?
Medium-grain white rice works well, though the texture will be less creamy. Long-grain rice can work but may be less cohesive.
How long will leftovers keep?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in microwave or whole casserole covered in 350F oven.