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Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

A warm, comforting casserole made with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, tomatoes, spices, and melted cheddar cheese. Easy, hearty, and perfect for weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 430

Ingredients
  

Casserole Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked
  • 1 onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil optional
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp chili powder optional
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet
  • Wire rack
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a casserole dish.
  2. Sauté onion in olive oil until softened, then add garlic.
  3. Brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks.
  4. Season with paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Stir in uncooked rice and toast for 1 minute.
  6. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a low simmer for 3–4 minutes.
  7. Add heavy cream and stir in shredded cheddar cheese.
  8. Transfer mixture to casserole dish and top with additional cheese.
  9. Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley.

Notes

For extra creaminess, add 1/4 cup more heavy cream before baking.