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Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make one-pan dinner that combines tender lean ground beef, fluffy rice, savory tomato sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, it offers a balanced blend of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables baked together for a satisfying and flavorful meal everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb lean ground beef

Grains

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for extra nutrients)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as diced bell peppers, corn, or peas)

Liquids

  • 2 cups beef broth (or water)
  • 1 cup tomato sauce

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your choice)

Spices & Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (herbs like oregano, basil, thyme)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Cook 1 cup of rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of beef broth (or water) for enhanced flavor. Set aside once cooked.
  2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb lean ground beef until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease to avoid an oily casserole.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Add 1 diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 cup of your chosen mixed vegetables to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Stir in 1 cup tomato sauce, the cooked rice, and spices (1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, and 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning) into the beef and vegetable mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the combined mixture into a greased casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheese over the top to create a golden, gooey crust.
  6. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Drain the ground beef well to reduce excess fat and prevent a soggy casserole.
  • Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme as a finishing garnish to add bright, fresh flavor.
  • Do not overcook rice beforehand; slightly undercooked rice absorbs flavors better during baking.
  • For creamier texture, add cheese both inside the mixture and on top of the casserole.
  • Allow casserole to rest a few minutes before serving to let flavors meld and make slicing easier.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg

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