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Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
1 cup beef broth
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1/2 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break up the meat as it cooks.
Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Mix in the Soup and Seasonings:
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes, stirring to combine.
4. Add the Rice and Cheese:
Stir in the cooked rice, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and the frozen peas or corn (if using). Mix everything well until evenly combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake:
Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley if desired.