Savory Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe You’ll Love
This Savory Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that combines ground beef, rice, and vegetables in a cheesy baked casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1lb ground beef
- 1 cuplong-grain white rice
- 1small onion, chopped
- 1bell pepper, chopped
- 2cloves garlic, minced
- 1can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cupbeef broth
- 1 teaspoonpaprika
- 1 teaspoondried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoonsalt
- 1/2 teaspoonblack pepper
- 1 cupshredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Start by heating your large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. This crucial step not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that your filling is juicy and tender. After the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole light and healthy.
- With the beef browned, it’s time to add in your veggies. Toss the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic into the skillet. Stir frequently for about 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables become soft and fragrant. This step not only adds depth to your dish but also infuses the beef with flavors that elevate the entire casserole.
- Once your vegetables are perfectly cooked, it’s time to layer on the flavors. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and uncooked rice. Sprinkle in the paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to season. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, making sure to mix everything well. This bubbling blend of ingredients sets the stage for a hearty casserole that will amaze your family.
- After all ingredients are well-combined and simmering, transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Ensure everything is spread out evenly for uniform cooking. To keep moisture in while baking, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, which can help cook the rice thoroughly.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 25-30 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the flavorful liquids, becoming tender and delicious. It’s essential to keep an eye on it, as ovens can vary; you want your casserole to be bubbling and the rice fully cooked.
- Once your casserole has baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and carefully peel back the foil. The next step is the best part—sprinkling a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the top! Return the casserole to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, just long enough for the cheese to melt and become wonderfully bubbly.
- After baking, take a moment to let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes. This is the ideal time to feel the excitement build! Once ready, scoop out portions and serve them warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This vibrant touch not only adds color but also a hint of freshness to your dish.
Notes
For the best flavor, allow your casserole to sit for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven—this helps the layers set.
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 27 g