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Instructions for Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the casserole cooks evenly and the cheddar crust gets perfectly golden.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. You can use beef broth instead of water for extra flavor, but water works just fine too. Once the rice is done, set it aside.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Veggies and Seasoning
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft. Next, stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to cook for another 2-3 minutes, just to heat the vegetables through.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice and the beef-vegetable mixture. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup), mixing until everything is evenly coated. Add the shredded cheddar cheese (except for the ½ cup reserved for topping) and stir again.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly, making sure the mixture is well-distributed.
Step 7: Bake and Add the Cheddar Crust
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and form a golden, crispy crust as it bakes.
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can broil the casserole for an additional 1-2 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and added flavor.
Why This Casserole is a Must-Try
1. Quick to Make
With only a few steps, you can have this delicious casserole ready in no time. Most of the time is spent in the oven, so you can relax while it bakes to perfection!
2. Customizable
This casserole is incredibly versatile. Feel free to switch up the vegetables or use different types of cheese. You can even swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
3. Leftover-Friendly
This casserole is great for leftovers! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven. It’s a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
Tips for Making the Best Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Flavor boost: Add some extra spices to customize the flavor to your liking, such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning.
- Extra cheesy: If you love cheese, feel free to add more shredded cheddar on top or mix in other varieties of cheese, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
- Substitute soup: If you’re not a fan of canned cream soups, you can make your own creamy base with heavy cream and a little flour or use a cheese sauce for a richer flavor.
- Topping ideas: Add a crunchy topping by mixing breadcrumbs with a little butter and sprinkling it over the cheese before baking.
Conclusion
The Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that will soon become a family favorite. Its combination of tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a crispy cheddar topping makes it a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit at the dinner table! Try it today and savor the cheesy goodness in every bite!
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