Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- Sauté the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Combine Ingredients
- Mix in Remaining Ingredients: To the skillet, add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), cream of mushroom soup, broth, and optional mixed vegetables. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Season: Add paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Make sure the mixture is evenly seasoned.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
- Uncover and Brown: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rice is tender.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Cool Slightly: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Use Leftover Cooked Rice: If you have leftover rice, you can add it towards the end of the cooking process to reduce baking time.
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like corn, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
- Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, try using different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- One-Pot Wonder: This casserole is easy to prepare and minimizes cleanup, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Dish: The ingredients can easily be customized to suit your family’s preferences, allowing you to make it your own.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of cheesy goodness, tender rice, and savory beef creates a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.
Health Considerations
- Balance Your Plate: While this casserole is comforting and delicious, consider serving it alongside a green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Lean Protein Option: Using ground turkey or lean ground beef can make this dish a bit healthier while still providing the comforting flavors you love.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful, family-friendly dish that brings together comforting ingredients in a simple, satisfying way. With its creamy cheese topping and flavorful beef and rice filling, this casserole is bound to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this dish is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this deliciously comforting casserole!
