Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is an all-in-one meal that combines ground beef, rice, and cheese into a hearty and satisfying casserole. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor, making it the perfect choice for busy nights when you need a comforting meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or use cream of chicken soup for a different flavor)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the beef and onions)
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for about 6-7 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef and onions, uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, beef broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
3. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30-35 minutes.
2. After 30 minutes, remove the foil, stir the casserole, and sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
3. Return the casserole to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rice is tender.

Step 4: Serve

1. Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes.
2. Serve the casserole warm, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired.

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:

• One-Dish Meal: Everything cooks in one casserole dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Comforting and Hearty: The combination of ground beef, rice, and melted cheese creates a warm, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Customizable: You can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas to the casserole for extra nutrition and flavor. Homemade Samoas Girl Scout Cookies
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, flavorful nature of this dish makes it perfect for picky eaters, and it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or oven.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-60 minutes until heated through.