Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
A comforting and budget-friendly casserole combining ground beef, cheese, and rice, perfect for weeknight dinners and family gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked white rice Freshly cooked is preferred.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup Can substitute with cream of chicken.
- 1/2 cup milk or beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 tsp paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
- optional chopped parsley for garnish
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 any excess fat.
- Mix in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk (or broth), paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, half of the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix everything well to combine.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Broil for an extra 2 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and enjoy while hot.
Notes
For best results, consider using freshly cooked rice. You can customize the dish with spices or additional vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.