Description
This Beef & Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish combining flavorful ground beef, tender rice, and a rich blend of seasonings baked to perfection with melted cheese on top. Ideal for cozy weeknight dinners or family meals, it is quick, budget-friendly, and easily customizable to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Protein
- 1 lb ground beef
Grains
- 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
Cheese
- 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or mixed Italian herbs)
Optional Vegetables
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
- 1/2 cup peas or corn
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until fully browned and no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure even texture.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Stir occasionally until softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Tomatoes: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs. Stir in diced tomatoes with their juices to create a rich, flavorful base.
- Combine Rice and Broth: Pour in uncooked rice and beef broth, stirring well to evenly distribute ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Transfer to Baking Dish and Bake: Pour the beef and rice mixture into a greased casserole dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Add Cheese and Bake Again: Remove the foil, evenly sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic and herbs for the best flavor.
- Beef broth enhances richness compared to water.
- Covering while baking steams the rice and prevents drying out.
- Let the casserole rest 5-10 minutes after baking for the flavors to meld and the dish to firm up.
- Brown rice requires longer cooking and adds a nuttier taste and chewier texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/6th of casserole)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: beef casserole, rice casserole, ground beef dinner, one dish meal, easy casserole, comfort food, family meal
