Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
A delightful and hearty dish that combines tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and rich cheese in a creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef The main protein base
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice Absorbs flavors during cooking
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup Provides creamy consistency
- 1 cup milk or beef broth Used for the sauce
- 1 medium onion, diced Adds savory flavor
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the aroma and flavor
- 1 teaspoon paprika Adds a touch of warmth
- 1 teaspoon salt Standard seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper For added flavor
- 2 cups shredded cheese, divided For topping and flavor
- to taste Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional) Optional for decoration
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or beef broth, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Assembly and Baking
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, half of the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix thoroughly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Optional: Broil for an additional 2 minutes for a crispy topping.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Topping with breadcrumbs before baking adds a crunchy texture. Store leftovers in airtight containers and reheat to enjoy later.