Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole with Cheese !

Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice:

Start by cooking the rice. If you’re using white rice, follow the package instructions to cook it until tender. For brown rice, it might take a little longer—about 40-45 minutes to cook fully. Once cooked, set it aside.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

While the rice is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.

3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings:

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the cooked beef, and sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the mixture. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.

4. Combine Rice and Beef Mixture:

Add the cooked rice to the beef mixture, stirring everything together. If you’re using frozen peas (or any other vegetable), fold them into the casserole mix. The peas add a nice pop of color and sweetness, but feel free to leave them out or swap them for other vegetables like corn or bell peppers.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

Transfer the beef and rice mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with 1 cup of shredded cheese and spread it evenly over the top.

6. Bake the Casserole:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Finish with Cheese:

Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle an additional 1/2 cup of shredded cheese on top. Return the dish to the oven for another 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become golden and slightly crispy on the edges.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. Then, slice it up and serve! This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Why This Casserole Is So Great

1. Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty, filling dinner on the table in under an hour. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook but still want a meal that’s satisfying and delicious.
2. Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are affordable, and most of them are kitchen staples that you probably already have on hand. Ground beef, rice, and cheese are inexpensive, making this casserole a cost-effective option for feeding the family.
3. Kid-Friendly: The creamy, cheesy flavor and familiar ingredients make this casserole a hit with kids and adults alike. It’s a great way to get your little ones to eat more vegetables (especially if you sneak in some peas or finely chopped spinach!).
4. Make Ahead Option: This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it the night before and store it in the fridge, then simply bake it the next day for a quick meal. Leftovers also keep well, so it’s great for lunch the next day.

Variations to Try

• Swap the Meat: If you want to switch up the flavor, try using ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage instead of beef.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to increase the nutrition and flavor profile.
• Use a Different Cheese: While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you could also try Monterey Jack, Swiss, or a combination of parmesan and asiago for a different twist.
• Make it Spicy: Add a bit of jalapeño or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for a little heat.

Conclusion

Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole with Cheese is the perfect comfort food dish that combines the richness of beef, the fluffiness of rice, and the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s easy to prepare, highly customizable, and sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a meal to feed the family on a busy weeknight or a dish to impress at a casual gathering, this casserole will be a hit every time.

Try this delicious and satisfying recipe tonight and discover why it’s bound to become a family favorite!