Description
Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
2 cups beef broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)
1 cup bell peppers, diced (red, yellow, or orange)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Cook the beef:
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Drain any excess fat.
Add rice and seasonings:
Stir uncooked rice into the skillet. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
Assemble the casserole:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the beef and rice mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
Bake:
Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and serve:
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve warm. Enjoy this hearty, comforting dish with a side salad or crusty bread!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 390 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time. First, ensure all ingredients are prepped. Brown the beef thoroughly, breaking it into small crumbles. After adding the onion and garlic, cook until translucent, not browned, to build flavor without bitterness. When stirring in the rice, ensure each grain is coated in the fat and seasonings before adding the liquid. Use a fork to gently fluff the mixture after simmering to separate the rice grains. For the final bake, place the dish under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes for a beautifully golden, bubbly cheese top.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty casserole is a complete meal but pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for scooping up every last bit. For a creamier contrast, add a dollop of sour cream or cool avocado slices on top. To round out the meal, consider simple steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli.
How-to Summary
In summary, this one-pan to one-dish meal is simple: brown beef with aromatics, add dry rice and seasonings, pour in broth and tomatoes, then simmer until the rice is tender. Transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until melted and golden. Garnish with fresh herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the beef and rice mixture, let it cool, and store it covered in the fridge for up to 2 days. Add the cheese and bake when ready, adding 5-10 extra minutes to the bake time.
Can I use a different type of rice? White or brown rice work, but cooking times vary. Brown rice may need an extra 1/4 cup of broth and 10-15 more minutes of simmering. Do not use instant rice as it will become mushy.
How can I make this dish spicier? Increase the chili powder, add a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers, or stir in a 4 oz can of diced green chiles. A dash of hot sauce in the broth also works.
Is it possible to make this without beef? Absolutely. Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat substitute are excellent alternatives. Adjust the broth base to match (e.g., chicken broth for poultry).
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the entire casserole covered with foil in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining the beef fat: Excess grease can make the final dish oily. Drain thoroughly after browning.
- Overcooking the rice: Simmer only until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender. Overcooking leads to a mushy texture.
- Using pre-cooked rice: This recipe relies on the rice cooking in the seasoned broth. Pre-cooked rice will absorb no flavor and become soggy.
- Forgetting to season in layers: Season the beef while browning AND when adding the broth. Taste before baking and adjust.
- Using cheese that doesn’t melt well: Stick with cheddar, mozzarella, or a Monterey Jack blend. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses with anti-caking agents, which can lead to a grainy melt.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole is the epitome of reliable, satisfying comfort food. It masterfully combines pantry staples into a flavorful, family-friendly dish that is both easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a creamy, cheesy, and hearty meal that is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s a simple, one-dish wonder that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss.