This hearty beef and rice casserole with cheese is the perfect dish for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Packed with savory ground beef, rice, and a delicious blend of cheeses, this casserole is a complete meal in one. It’s easy to make, filling, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of beef, rice, and cheese makes this casserole incredibly filling and satisfying.
• One-Pot Wonder: This dish can be made in a single casserole dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables or using different types of cheese to suit your taste.
• Great for Leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients
• Ground Beef (1 pound or 450 grams): The star of the dish. Ground beef provides rich flavor and protein.
• Cooked Rice (2 cups): White or brown rice works perfectly in this recipe. It adds a nice texture and helps to bulk up the casserole.
• Cheese (2 cups shredded): A blend of mozzarella and cheddar cheese works best for this dish, providing gooey, melty goodness. Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination.
• Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds a savory base flavor to the casserole.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For extra depth of flavor.
• Tomato Sauce (1 cup): Adds a rich, tangy sauce that blends perfectly with the beef and rice.
• Beef Broth (1/2 cup): To make the casserole moist and flavorful.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and a pinch of Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the onion and garlic.
• Parsley (for garnish, optional): Adds color and freshness.
Optional Add-ins
• Vegetables: You can add peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Spices: Add a dash of cumin or chili powder for a bit of heat and flavor.
• Cream Cheese: For a creamier texture, you can mix in some cream cheese.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the casserole to bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This will take about 6-8 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the beef.
Add the tomato sauce, beef broth, and seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning) to the beef mixture. Stir everything together, and let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 3: Combine the Beef and Rice
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the beef mixture. Stir until everything is evenly distributed. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with cooking spray or butter. Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top the casserole with the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese, ensuring it is covered completely.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Beef and Rice Casserole
• Use Lean Ground Beef: For a healthier option, you can use lean ground beef or ground turkey in place of regular ground beef.
• Customize with Veggies: Add your favorite vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for a nutrient-packed dish.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole in advance by assembling it the night before, then refrigerating it until you’re ready to bake.
• Cheese Variations: If you prefer a different flavor profile, try using Swiss cheese, Gouda, or a spicy pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information
This casserole is a great source of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Here’s a general breakdown per serving:
• Calories: 350-450 calories (depending on portion size and cheese used)
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Carbs: 35-40 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams
The exact nutritional content may vary depending on the ingredients you use, so be sure to check the labels for more accurate information.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Any Occasion
• Family-Friendly: This casserole is a hit with both kids and adults. Its cheesy, hearty nature makes it a meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Great for Meal Prep: It’s easy to make in large batches, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It also freezes well, so it’s perfect for making ahead and reheating on busy days.
• Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients like ground beef, rice, and cheese, this casserole is a cost-effective meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Conclusion
This hearty beef and rice casserole with cheese is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s easy to make, loaded with flavor, and guaranteed to please your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or prepping it for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.