Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook 2-3 minutes, until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer 15-20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
6. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
7. Bake 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

Expert Tips

• Use lean ground beef for a lower-fat option.
• Add your favorite vegetables (bell peppers, mushrooms, etc.) for extra flavor and nutrition.
• For extra creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese before baking.
• Ensure ground beef and onions are fully cooked before adding rice for even cooking.

Variations

• Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish.
• Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
• Add diced bell peppers or zucchini for more vegetables.
• Spice it up with diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with steamed broccoli or green beans.
• Pair with a crisp green salad.
• Enjoy with crusty bread or dinner rolls.

FAQs

• Q: Can I make this ahead? A: Yes! Assemble and refrigerate until ready to bake; adjust baking time accordingly.
• Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes! Cool completely, then freeze in portions. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Q: Can I use different cheese? A: Absolutely! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend work well.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food – simple, satisfying, and sure to impress! Enjoy!