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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, hearty, and comforting one-dish meal combining juicy ground beef, tender rice, savory tomato sauce, and a gooey cheese topping. Perfect for weeknight dinners or relaxing weekends, this casserole offers a kid-friendly, budget-conscious, and customizable dish that’s easy to prepare and satisfying to eat.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
  • 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup tomato sauce or 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water

Spices and Herbs

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink and has developed a brown color. Drain excess fat to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.
  2. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook until onions are translucent and soft to release their sweetness and aroma.
  3. Incorporate Tomato Sauce and Seasonings: Pour in tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, then add paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let simmer briefly to blend the flavors.
  4. Add Cooked Rice and Broth: Mix in cooked rice and pour in beef broth or water. Stir to coat the rice evenly and keep the casserole moist during baking.
  5. Assemble and Top with Cheese: Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top to form a gooey melted crust when baked.
  6. Bake Until Bubbly: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving to allow flavors to set.

Notes

  • Use leftover cooked rice for best texture as it absorbs flavors better and is less sticky.
  • Always drain excess fat from the cooked beef to avoid a greasy casserole.
  • Cover the dish while baking to help the rice steam properly and prevent cheese from drying out.
  • Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking to firm up for easier serving.
  • Try mixing different cheeses like mozzarella with cheddar for extra flavor and stretchiness.

Nutrition

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

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