Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

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This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food – hearty, flavorful, and oh-so-cheesy. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this dish combines simple ingredients into a meal that everyone will love. The rich, savory flavors of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and tender rice make this casserole a classic that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

The Perfect Comfort Food

Casseroles are a staple in my home when I need a meal that brings comfort and warmth. This recipe blends all the best parts of a homemade meal into one dish: juicy ground beef, perfectly cooked rice, and a gooey, melted cheese topping. It’s not just delicious but also convenient, with everything baked together in one dish for easy serving and cleanup.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or making leftovers for the week, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a versatile, crowd-pleasing option that’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Let’s dive into this hearty and flavorful dish!

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

To create this delicious and satisfying casserole, you’ll need a combination of fresh, flavorful, and pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what makes this recipe so special:

• Ground Beef – Lean ground beef is the star of this casserole, providing a savory and hearty base.
• Cooked White Rice – Fluffy, tender white rice soaks up all the rich flavors, making every bite satisfying. You can substitute with brown rice for a healthier twist.
• Onion and Garlic – These aromatic ingredients add depth and flavor to the dish, giving the beef a savory boost.
• Tomato Sauce – A rich, tangy tomato sauce ties all the ingredients together beautifully, adding moisture and a hint of acidity.
• Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar cheese melts perfectly, creating a gooey, golden topping that makes this casserole irresistible.
• Seasonings – A mix of salt, pepper, paprika, and dried Italian herbs gives the dish a flavorful kick. Adjust the spices to your taste.
• Butter and Milk – These creamy ingredients help create a velvety texture in the casserole, enhancing the richness of the cheese.

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How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This casserole is simple to make with a few easy steps. Follow along to create a mouthwatering dish that will become a household favorite:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and softened. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Season the Beef
Stir in the tomato sauce, paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, seasoned ground beef mixture, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top for a gooey, golden crust.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The casserole should be heated through, with a slightly crispy cheese topping.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

How Long to Bake Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

The baking time ensures the casserole is hot, the cheese is perfectly melted, and the flavors come together seamlessly. Here’s a quick guide:

• Standard Bake Time – Bake the casserole at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden on top.
• Broil Option – For an extra-crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Be sure to watch closely to avoid burning.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish!), you can easily store and reheat them for later. Here’s how:

• Refrigerator – Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
• Freezer – To freeze, portion the casserole into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

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