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–+ servings

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

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This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is a comforting, one-pan dish that's easy to make and perfect for feeding a family. It's kid-approved and adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef (lean recommended; 85–90% lean is ideal) For a lower red meat option, swap with ground turkey or a plant-based crumbled protein.
  • 1 cup onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup rice, uncooked (white long-grain or brown rice) Brown rice may need a few extra minutes and liquid.
  • 2 cups beef broth Chicken or vegetable broth can be used as substitutes.
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen peas, carrots, corn) Add frozen vegetables when rice is nearly cooked.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
Flavor Enhancements
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika For extra flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) if you plan to finish the casserole in the oven.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until it’s no longer pink. Drain excess fat if desired.
  3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Stir in the uncooked rice so the grains get coated and slightly toasted, about 1 minute.
  5. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth, scrape up browned bits from the pan, and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook according to your rice type: about 15–18 minutes for white rice, 30–35 minutes for brown rice.
  6. When the rice is just tender, stir in the mixed vegetables and half the shredded cheese. Adjust seasoning.
Baking
  1. Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased 9x9-inch (or similar) baking dish if you want a crisp top. Sprinkle remaining cheese evenly.
  2. Bake at 350°F for 12–15 minutes until cheese is fully melted and edges bubble.
  3. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving — this helps the casserole set and makes it easier to portion.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

Notes

Best served with a crisp side salad or steamed broccoli. Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3–4 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
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