Description
This hearty Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting one-dish meal perfect for weeknight dinners. Combining savory browned ground beef, aromatic onions and garlic, tender rice, and tangy diced tomatoes all baked with melty cheddar cheese on top, it’s a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Grains and Canned Goods
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or 3 cups cooked)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the casserole later.
- Cook the rice: If not using pre-cooked rice, prepare 1 cup of white rice according to the package instructions until tender.
- Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is fully browned. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant, enhancing the flavor base.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, cooked rice, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to combine flavors.
- Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes on the stovetop to allow the flavors to meld together nicely.
- Assemble in casserole dish: Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top of the beef and rice layer to provide a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Bake covered: Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes to heat through and melt the cheese.
- Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish and serve: Optionally sprinkle fresh parsley over the casserole before serving warm to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For faster prep, use pre-cooked rice or leftover rice from a previous meal.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if your beef broth is salty.
- If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing onions and garlic.
- This casserole reheats well and makes great leftovers for the next day.
