Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
A comforting dish that combines flavorful ground beef, tender rice, and gooey cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Rich and juicy, the star of the recipe.
- 1 small onion, chopped Adds a sweet and savory aroma.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice The base that absorbs all the flavors.
- 2 cups beef broth Enhances the dish with a deep, savory taste.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained Brings freshness and acidity.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Melts beautifully for a sharp flavor.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Creates that irresistibly gooey texture.
- 1 tsp garlic powder Adds a punch of flavor.
- 1 tsp onion powder Complements the fresh onions perfectly.
- ½ tsp salt Enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ tsp black pepper Provides a subtle kick.
- 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking your casserole.
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent any sticking.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add ground beef and sauté until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Add the chopped onion and continue cooking until softened.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, and let the seasonings mingle with the beef for a minute.
- Add the drained diced tomatoes and beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the long-grain white rice and let everything cook together for about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to your greased casserole dish and spread it evenly.
- Top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Consider adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or frozen peas for added nutrition and color. For a lighter version, swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken and use brown rice. Experiment with different cheeses for a twist.