Savory Beef and Rice Casserole with Cheddar Topping
Creamy, juicy, and packed with comforting flavor, this casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners.
Servings: 4 servings
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Baking Dish
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef Preferably 80/20 for flavor
- 1 cup Cooked Rice White or brown, cooked according to package instructions
- 1 medium Onion, chopped About 1 cup
- 1 can (14 oz) Diced Tomatoes Undrained
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded Packed lightly
- 1 cup Beef Broth Low-sodium preferred
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Salt To taste
- 1/4 tsp Pepper To taste
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil For sautéing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or similar-size casserole dish.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and slightly translucent.
- Add 1 pound ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no pink remains, about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet into a safe container and discard. Return the skillet to the stove.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon garlic powder and 1 teaspoon paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste and cook for about 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
- Add one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes (undrained) and 1 cup beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to meld flavors and slightly reduce the liquid.
- Meanwhile, if you haven’t already, cook 1 cup rice according to package directions so it’s ready to combine. Fluff with a fork.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice with the beef and tomato mixture. Stir gently until combined and evenly distributed.
- Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the rice and beef mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this cheesy casserole!
Notes
For a twist, swap cheddar for pepper jack for heat or mozzarella for extra stretch. Serve with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.