Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Here’s a hearty, comforting Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole—an easy one-pan meal that’s family-friendly and full of flavor.

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Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Servings: 4–6

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 35–40 minutes

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Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or corn

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook beef & aromatics
   In a skillet, heat oil over medium heat.
   Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened.
   Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

3. Combine casserole ingredients
   Stir in rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and optional veggies. Mix until well combined.

4. Assemble in baking dish
   Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.
   Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar on top.

5. Bake
   Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes.
   Remove foil, sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheddar, and bake 5–10 more minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve
   Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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Tips

• For extra creaminess, stir in ½ cup sour cream before baking.

• You can swap rice for quinoa or brown rice, adjusting liquid as needed.

• Make ahead: Assemble in the morning and bake in the evening.

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Variations

• 🌶 Spicy version: Add ½ tsp chili powder or diced jalapeños

• 🥔 Vegetable-packed: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms

• 🍲 One-pot stove version: Cook everything in a deep skillet for 20 minutes for a quicker option

I can also provide a slow-cooker version that’s fully hands-off if you want.