Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
A comforting, hearty casserole that combines ground beef, rice, and cheese into a delicious meal perfect for families.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef Use extra-lean for less fat.
- 1 small onion, diced For flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Freshly minced for best flavor.
- 2 cups cooked white rice You can use leftover rice.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup Or cream of chicken.
- 1/2 cup milk or beef broth Use broth for more flavor.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Divided for mixing and topping.
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust to your preference.
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish For presentation.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). 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. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Making the Sauce
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Assembling the Casserole
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, half of the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well.
Baking
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
You can add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Adjust spices to your taste.