Ground Beef Cutlets with Rice and Creamy Sauce

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice:
   • Start by cooking the rice. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water (or broth) to a boil. Add a pinch of salt, then stir in the rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Once cooked, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
2. Make the Ground Beef Cutlets:
   • In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spoon until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
   • Divide the beef mixture into equal portions (about 8-10 portions depending on the size you prefer) and form them into small, flat cutlets or patties.
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the cutlets in the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Once cooked, remove the cutlets from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the flour and stir to form a roux (a thick paste). Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color.
   • Gradually whisk in the milk and broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook the sauce, stirring frequently, until it thickens and becomes smooth (about 4-5 minutes). If you’d like a touch of tanginess, you can stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard at this point.
   • Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a little more broth or milk to reach the desired consistency.
4. Assemble the Dish:
   • To serve, spoon a portion of cooked rice onto each plate. Place 2-3 ground beef cutlets on top of the rice and then generously drizzle the creamy sauce over the cutlets and rice.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives, if desired, for a pop of color and added flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the Ground Beef Cutlets with Rice and Creamy Sauce immediately while everything is hot. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

1. Hearty and Filling: The combination of tender ground beef cutlets, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce makes for a meal that’s both filling and satisfying. It’s the perfect comfort food for chilly nights or whenever you’re craving a hearty dinner.
2. Simple and Quick: This recipe is easy to make and doesn’t require any fancy ingredients or complicated techniques. You can have it ready in about 40-45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
3. Customizable: You can easily customize this dish to suit your taste. Add some sautéed mushrooms to the creamy sauce for extra umami, or spice things up with a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
4. Family-Friendly: With its mild flavors and creamy texture, this dish is sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a perfect way to get everyone to the dinner table happily.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Cutlets with Rice and Creamy Sauce:

• Don’t Overcook the Beef Cutlets: Be sure to cook the ground beef cutlets until they’re golden brown on both sides, but avoid overcooking them to keep them juicy and tender.
• Use Full-Fat Milk for a Richer Sauce: For a creamier sauce, use whole milk or half-and-half instead of skim milk. The extra fat will give the sauce a rich, velvety texture.
• Make It Ahead: You can prepare the beef cutlets and creamy sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days, and simply reheat when ready to serve.

Conclusion:

Ground Beef Cutlets with Rice and Creamy Sauce is a wonderfully comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With juicy, tender beef cutlets, fluffy rice, and a luscious creamy sauce, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table for seconds. Give it a try, and enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this hearty comfort food!