Imagine a dish that combines the rich, hearty flavors of a classic Bolognese sauce with the creamy comfort of a perfectly baked gratin. This Bolognese Rice Gratin is the ultimate comfort food that brings together layers of tender rice, savory meat sauce, and a luxurious béchamel, all topped with a golden, melted cheese crust. Perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a truly spectacular meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- US Measurements:
- Ground Beef: 1.1 lbs (beef or beef/pork mix)
- Onion: 1 medium
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Carrot: 1 medium
- Celery: 1 stalk (optional)
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Tomato Puree: 2 cups
- Tomato Paste: 1 tbsp
- Rice: 8.8 oz (long grain or basmati)
- Butter: 3 tbsp
- Flour: 3 tbsp
- Milk: 2 cups
- Cheese: 3.5-5.3 oz (Emmental, mozzarella, Comté)
- European Measurements:
- Ground Beef: 500g
- Onion: 1 medium
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Carrot: 1 medium
- Celery: 1 stalk (optional)
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Tomato Puree: 500ml
- Tomato Paste: 1 tbsp
- Rice: 250g
- Butter: 40g
- Flour: 40g
- Milk: 500ml
- Cheese: 100-150g
Seasonings
- Herbes de Provence or Oregano
- Salt and Pepper
- Sugar (optional)
- Grated Nutmeg
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
- Cook rice in salted water for 10-12 minutes
- Drain and set aside
2. Make the Bolognese Sauce
- Chop onion, garlic, carrot, and celery
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet
- Sauté vegetables for 5-7 minutes over medium heat
- Add ground beef, brown thoroughly
- Stir in tomato puree, tomato paste, herbs, salt, and pepper
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes until sauce thickens
3. Create the Béchamel Sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan
- Add flour to create a roux
- Gradually whisk in milk
- Cook over medium heat until smooth
- Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg
4. Assemble and Bake the Gratin
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Layer rice in a baking dish
- Spread Bolognese sauce over rice
- Pour béchamel sauce on top
- Sprinkle grated cheese
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly
Cooking Details
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450-500 calories
Why This Recipe is Nutritionally Awesome
This Bolognese Rice Gratin is more than just a delicious meal—it’s a nutritional powerhouse! The lean ground beef provides high-quality protein, while the mix of vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals. The rice offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, and the béchamel sauce contributes calcium from milk. By using a moderate amount of cheese and balancing the ingredients, this dish provides a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and relatively nutritious.
Pro Tips
- Use a mix of cheeses for more complex flavor
- Let the gratin rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier serving
- Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking
Bon appétit!