Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty, all-in-one dish made for busy nights and hungry families. Juicy beef, fluffy rice, melty cheddar, and a creamy base come together in a baked casserole that’s as easy as it is satisfying. It’s classic comfort food with rich flavors and minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup uncooked white rice
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2 cups beef broth
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1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of cheddar)
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1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
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1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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½ tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Cook the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion and garlic until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
3️⃣ Mix ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, uncooked rice, beef broth, soup, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
4️⃣ Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil.
5️⃣ Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6️⃣ Add cheese and finish baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7️⃣ Serve: Let rest for 5–10 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, and serve warm.
Notes
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Want a shortcut? Use pre-cooked rice and reduce the baking time to 30–35 minutes.
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Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
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Freezer-friendly: Assemble ahead and freeze unbaked. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 1 hr 10 min