Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
A comforting and hearty casserole made with layers of fluffy rice, savory ground beef, and a delightful blend of cheeses, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (juicy and well-seasoned)
- 1 small onion, chopped (adds a mild sweetness)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (fluffy and tender)
- 2 cups beef broth (rich in flavor)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (for a splash of acidity)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp and creamy)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (golden and gooey)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (for a hint of zest)
- 1 tsp onion powder (to enhance sweetness)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing the beef)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned and fully cooked.
- Add chopped onion and cook alongside the beef for 3-4 minutes until soft.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add diced tomatoes and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Mix in the rice and let it cook for another five minutes until slightly softened.
- Carefully transfer the beef and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading evenly.
- Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top, then cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.