Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
A delectable comfort food casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and gooey melted cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef Juicy and packed with flavor
- 1 small onion, chopped Adds a fragrant sweetness
Casserole Base
- 1 cup long-grain white rice Provides the perfect base for the dish
- 2 cups beef broth Imparts depth of flavor and moisture
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained Offers a subtle tang and color
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese A classic for rich and gooey flavor
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Brings creaminess and stretchiness
Spices and Oils
- 1 tsp garlic powder Adds a fragrant touch
- 1 tsp onion powder Enhances the flavor
- 1/2 tsp salt A necessity for balancing flavors
- 1/2 tsp black pepper Provides a subtle kick
- 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing the beef and onions
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 7-10 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Cooking
- Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Gently stir in the rice and let cook for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to the casserole dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, brown the ground beef with smoked paprika. Mix in frozen vegetables for added nutrition. Use leftover cooked rice to save time.