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Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish combining lean ground beef, cooked rice, aromatic onions and garlic, tomato sauce, and melted cheese for a hearty, protein-packed meal perfect for busy weeknights. This versatile casserole is family-friendly, budget-conscious, and customizable with various veggies, spices, and cheeses to suit any taste or dietary need.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)

Grains

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)

Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Tomato Base

  • 1 cup tomato sauce or 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

Cheese

  • 1 to 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)

Seasonings

  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian herbs

Optional Vegetables

  • ½ cup chopped bell peppers
  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms
  • ½ cup chopped spinach

Instructions

  1. Sauté the Aromatics and Beef: Heat a pan over medium heat and sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and no longer pink.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce or diced tomatoes along with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors thoroughly.
  3. Combine with Cooked Rice and Vegetables: In a large bowl, mix the beef-tomato mixture with cooked rice and any chopped optional vegetables you want to include. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly combined.
  4. Transfer to a Baking Dish and Add Cheese: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the top for a perfect golden crust.
  5. Bake Until Bubbly: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

Notes

  • Drain excess fat from browned beef to prevent the casserole from becoming oily.
  • Use day-old rice to reduce moisture content for better texture and less mushiness.
  • Sauté onions and garlic properly to layer flavors and build depth in the dish.
  • Let the casserole rest 5-10 minutes after baking to firm up for easier slicing and serving.
  • Experiment with cheese blends or add cream cheese or sour cream for a creamier texture inside.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: ground beef casserole, rice casserole, easy dinner, weeknight meal, family-friendly casserole, comfort food, one-dish meal, baked casserole