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Cozy Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

cozy cheesy beef and rice casserole - featured image
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A comforting and easy-to-make casserole featuring ground beef, long-grain white rice, and melted cheddar cheese baked to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef
  • 1 cup (200g) uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz / 410g) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups (480ml) low sodium beef broth
  • 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional: ½ cup (120ml) sour cream or Greek yogurt

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Add ground beef to the skillet with onions and garlic. Break it up and cook until no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
  5. Stir in smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to season the beef evenly.
  6. Add uncooked rice and diced tomatoes (with juices) to the beef mixture and stir to combine.
  7. Pour in 2 cups beef broth and stir everything together, ensuring the rice is submerged.
  8. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
  9. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes to steam the rice.
  10. Remove foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, top with sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Notes

If rice isn’t tender after baking, add a splash more broth and bake a few more minutes. Drain excess fat from beef to avoid sogginess. Let casserole rest after baking to firm up. Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Use gluten-free broth for gluten-free version. Optional sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess after baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef casserole, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef recipe, rice casserole, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://lucastable.com/cozy-cheesy-beef-and-rice-casserole-easy-comforting-dinner-recipe/