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Timballo di Riso

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Timballo di Riso is a traditional Italian baked rice dish made with creamy Arborio rice, savory tomato meat sauce, and melted cheese, all layered and baked into a molded casserole that’s perfect for slicing and serving at family meals or gatherings.

  • Author: Sophia
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 6 portions
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Halal

Ingredients

  • 300 g Arborio rice
  • 400 ml tomato sauce
  • 300 g ground beef
  • 200 g mozzarella cheese, diced
  • 50 g Parmesan cheese, finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (about 100 g)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the mold)
  • 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (for coating the mold)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 20–22 cm baking mold or springform pan with butter and coat with breadcrumbs.
  2. Boil Arborio rice in salted water until al dente (8–10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes, then add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
  4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
  5. Pour in tomato sauce and simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat.
  6. In a large bowl, mix cooked rice with half of the meat sauce, half of the mozzarella, and half of the Parmesan. Stir to combine.
  7. Spread half the rice mixture into the mold and press gently. Layer with remaining meat sauce and mozzarella.
  8. Top with the rest of the rice mixture and smooth the surface. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan.
  9. Bake for 30 minutes, until top is golden and cheese is melted.
  10. Let rest for 10–15 minutes. Run a knife around the edges and unmold onto a plate. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

  • Letting the dish rest helps it firm up and slice neatly.
  • Add a beaten egg to the rice mixture for better structure.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with mushrooms or vegetables.
  • Freeze portions for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savorymomskitchen.com/timballo-di-riso/