Discover the ultimate one-pan meal that combines the hearty richness of ground beef, the creamy texture of melted cheese, and perfectly cooked rice. This Ground Beef and Cheese Rice Casserole is more than just a dinner – it’s a crowd-pleasing comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 500g (1.1 lbs) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 200g (1 cup) rice (white or basmati)
- 480ml (2 cups) beef broth or water
- 1 can (400g/14 oz) chopped tomatoes
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 200g (2 cups) grated cheese (cheddar, Emmental, mozzarella, or blend)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preparation
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F, gas mark 6)
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
2. Beef and Aromatics
- Sauté onion until translucent
- Add garlic and cook for one minute
- Add ground beef
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano
- Cook until beef is well browned
3. Adding Tomatoes and Rice
- Pour in chopped tomatoes and stir
- Add uncooked rice, coating with the mixture
- Pour in broth or water
- Bring to a boil
4. Baking Process
- Transfer mixture to a lightly oiled baking dish
- Cover with aluminum foil
- Bake for 30 minutes
- Remove foil
- Sprinkle grated cheese on top
- Bake for 10-15 minutes until cheese is golden brown
5. Serving
- Let stand for 5 minutes
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4-6
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Nutritional Highlights
- High in protein from ground beef
- Balanced meal with complex carbohydrates
- Approximately 450-500 calories per serving
Why This Ground Beef and Cheese Rice Casserole is a Nutritious Choice
This casserole offers a perfect balance of nutrition and flavor. The lean ground beef provides high-quality protein, while the rice offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. The addition of vegetables and herbs enhances the nutritional profile, making it a wholesome meal that supports overall health.
Expert Tips and Variations
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, peas, or corn for extra nutrition
- For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili flakes
- Use different cheese blends for varied flavor profiles
- Can be prepared ahead and reheated
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad
- Pair with steamed vegetables
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
A delicious, easy-to-make casserole that brings comfort and nutrition to your dinner table!