Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Quick and Simple Meal

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Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Let me introduce you to Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole! This simple dish combines ground beef, rice, and cheese into a comforting meal perfect for busy nights. With just a few easy steps, you can delight your family with a cheesy dish they’ll love. Ready to cook? Let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this crowd-pleaser!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Additional Ingredients

Seasonings and Toppings

In this cheesy casserole, the ground beef is the star. It gives the dish its rich flavor. I like using long-grain rice. It cooks well and stays fluffy. Beef broth adds depth and keeps the rice tender.

Diced tomatoes add moisture and a bit of acidity. Corn kernels bring sweetness and color. Onion and garlic boost the savory taste. Sauté them first to make the flavors pop.

For seasoning, smoked paprika gives a nice hint of smokiness. Ground cumin adds warmth. Salt and pepper round out the taste.

Finally, we can’t forget the cheese! Cheddar melts beautifully and gives that gooey texture. A sprinkle of fresh parsley makes the dish look bright and fresh.

Having all these ingredients ready makes cooking simple and fun. You can mix and match some items based on what you love or have at home. This recipe is flexible and a great way to make a hearty meal quickly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Casserole Dish

1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven for even cooking.

2. Next, grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish. This helps prevent sticking.

Cooking the Beef and Aromatics

1. In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion looks clear, about five minutes.

3. Now, add one pound of ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it turns brown, around eight to ten minutes. Break it up with a spoon while it cooks.

4. If there’s excess fat, drain it off. Then, stir in one teaspoon of smoked paprika, one teaspoon of ground cumin, one teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well to combine.

Assembling the Casserole

1. In the greased casserole dish, combine one cup of uncooked long-grain rice, two cups of beef broth, one can of diced tomatoes (drained), and one cup of corn.

2. Add the cooked beef mixture to the dish. Stir everything until it mixes evenly.

3. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.

4. After 30 minutes, take off the foil. Sprinkle two cups of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

5. Return the dish to the oven uncovered for an extra 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Once done, let the casserole sit for five minutes before serving. For a nice touch, garnish with chopped parsley.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Casserole Texture

To get the right rice consistency, use long-grain rice. This type cooks evenly in the casserole. Make sure to mix the rice well with the broth and other ingredients. This helps the rice absorb flavors and moisture as it cooks.

When browning ground beef, choose medium heat. This lets the beef cook slowly and evenly. Break the meat into small pieces with a spoon. This helps it brown better. If there is too much fat, drain it before mixing in spices.

Enhancing Flavor

You can boost flavor by using fresh herbs. Instead of dried herbs, try adding fresh basil or cilantro. They bring a bright taste to the dish.

Also, spice it up! If you like heat, add chili powder or cayenne pepper. For a smoky flavor, use smoked paprika, which is already in the recipe.

Presentation Tips

Garnish your casserole with chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness. Just sprinkle it on top before serving.

For a complete meal, serve the casserole with a side salad. A simple green salad pairs well and balances the rich flavors. You can also serve it with warm bread to soak up all the tasty juices.

Variations

Dietary Modifications

You can easily tweak this dish for different diets. For gluten-free options, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. It gives a nice texture while keeping the dish light. If you’re dairy-free, swap regular cheese for dairy-free cheese alternatives. Many stores have great options now. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal without worry.

Ingredient Swaps

You don’t have to stick to beef. Try turkey or chicken instead. They work well and can make the dish lighter. You can also add different vegetables. Think bell peppers, spinach, or even zucchini. This adds color and nutrition. Being creative with ingredients makes it fun and tasty.

Casserole Serving Ideas

This casserole pairs well with salads or crusty bread. A fresh salad brings a nice crunch and balances the dish. You can also use the casserole as a filling for tacos or wraps. Just scoop it into a tortilla, add your favorite toppings, and enjoy. These ideas make the meal versatile and exciting.

Storage Info

Proper Storage Techniques

After your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, you might have some leftovers. To refrigerate them, let the casserole cool to room temperature. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. This keeps the dish fresh and safe. You can store it in the fridge for up to four days.

If you want to keep it longer, try freezing it. First, let the casserole cool completely. Then, cut it into portions. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps the flavors intact. Your casserole can last in the freezer for about three months.

Reheating Guidelines

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, reheating properly matters. The best method is to use the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until hot.

If you’re in a rush, the microwave works too. Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each. This way, your casserole stays moist and tasty.

Shelf Life

For the best taste, eat your refrigerated casserole within four days. If you freeze it, aim to enjoy it within three months. After that, the texture and flavor may change. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Keeping track of the storage time helps ensure you enjoy the best version of your dish.

FAQs

How long does it take to cook Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole?

It takes about 55 minutes to cook this casserole. You spend 15 minutes prepping. The baking time is 30 minutes covered and an extra 10-15 minutes with cheese on top.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this casserole ahead. Prepare it up to the baking step. Cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.

What should I serve with Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole?

This casserole goes well with a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread or steamed veggies. These sides add color and crunch to your meal.

Can I use different types of cheese?

You can use different cheeses! Try mozzarella for a milder taste, or pepper jack for some heat. Mix them for a unique flavor.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

If you don’t have beef broth, use chicken broth instead. Vegetable broth also works well. Just adjust the seasoning to fit the flavor.

This blog post guides you through making a Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole. You learned about the main and additional ingredients needed for a flavorful dish. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions and valuable tips for perfecting your casserole. You also discovered ways to customize it for dietary needs and how to store leftovers properly.

In the end, this dish is versatile, easy to make, and satisfying. Enjoy creating your own version of this hearty meal. Your family will love i

Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

A hearty and comforting casserole featuring ground beef, rice, and cheese.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained (15 oz)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish.
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent (about 5 minutes).
• Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 8-10 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
• Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to combine.
• In the prepared casserole dish, combine the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), corn, and the cooked ground beef mixture. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
• Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
• After 30 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Return to the oven uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Once done, let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color.

Notes

Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving for better slicing.

Keyword beef, casserole, cheese, rice

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