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Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
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Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a warm, comforting one-dish meal combining savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheddar cheese. Easy to prepare and family-friendly, this hearty casserole offers bold flavors with simple ingredients, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. Customize it with your favorite spices and veggies for a delicious, versatile comfort food that’s great fresh or as leftovers.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Base

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup white or brown rice (preferably day-old, cooked)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
  • Optional: 1/2 cup corn kernels

Liquids & Sauces

  • 1 cup beef broth or stock (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or diced tomatoes

Cheese & Spices

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded recommended)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart into crumbles. Drain excess fat to prevent greasiness.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions become translucent and fragrant, building a savory base for the casserole.
  3. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the cooked rice, tomato sauce (or diced tomatoes), beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper to the beef and onion mixture. Mix thoroughly until the rice is evenly coated and absorbing the flavorful liquids. Add optional veggies if using.
  4. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Grease a casserole dish and pour in the combined mixture. Spread evenly and smooth the top to prepare for baking.
  5. Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, covering with foil initially to retain moisture and uncovering at the end to allow the cheese to turn bubbly and golden.

Notes

  • Use day-old rice to prevent mushiness and enhance flavor absorption.
  • Drain excess fat from browned beef to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
  • Cover with foil during most of the baking to keep moisture in, then uncover to brown the cheese.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and texture.
  • Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy casserole, ground beef casserole, beef and rice, comfort food, one-dish meal, easy dinner, family-friendly, meal prep

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/cheesy-ground-beef-and-rice-casserole/