Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Introduction

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a warm and filling dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. This casserole combines tender rice, savory ground beef, and melted cheddar cheese in one delicious, all-in-one meal. My family absolutely loved it! The cheese pulls, creamy sour cream, and hearty beef flavor make this casserole a favorite comfort food for all ages.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish:
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Ground Beef Mixture:
   In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is tender. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add Rice and Seasonings:
   Stir in the rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
4. Add Sour Cream and Cheese:
   Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
   Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
6. Bake the Casserole:
   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve Warm:
   Allow the casserole to cool slightly, then serve warm. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: 450 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Add a green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Pair with steamed green vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, for added nutrients.
• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or extra shredded cheese on top for added creaminess.
• Sprinkle fresh parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and flavor.

Additional Tips

1. For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while browning.
2. If you like a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
3. Use pre-shredded cheese for convenience, but freshly grated cheese melts better.
4. Don’t skip the draining step after browning the beef to prevent a greasy casserole.
5. Allow the casserole to sit for 5 minutes after baking to set the flavors and texture.

Recipe Variations

• Mexican-Inspired Casserole: Swap the Italian seasoning for taco seasoning and add black beans and corn.
• Vegetable-Loaded Casserole: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to increase the veggie content.
• Turkey and Rice Casserole: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
• Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole: Replace ground beef with shredded cooked chicken and use chicken broth.
• Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a lower-carb version.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a main dish with simple sides, like roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
• Pair with a creamy coleslaw or potato salad for a hearty meal.
• Serve as a potluck or party dish; it’s great for sharing and easy to reheat.
• Offer with hot sauce or chili flakes on the side for those who like extra heat.
• Enjoy as leftovers for a quick, filling meal the next day.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating. Place cooled portions in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a bit of extra cheese on top when reheating for a fresh, melted topping.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
   Yes, but increase the simmering time as brown rice takes longer to cook.
2. Can I make this casserole in advance?
   Yes, assemble it without baking, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
3. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
   Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative to beef.
4. What can I use instead of sour cream?
   You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
5. Can I add other cheeses?
   Yes, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack are great additions to the cheddar.
6. Is this casserole gluten-free?
   Yes, as long as all ingredients, especially the beef broth, are gluten-free.
7. Can I make it dairy-free?
   Use a dairy-free cheese substitute and replace sour cream with a dairy-free option.
8. How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
   Make sure the rice is fully cooked and covered with sour cream and cheese to retain moisture.
9. Can I add more vegetables?
   Yes, chopped bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions.
10. Can I use pre-cooked rice?
    Yes, use about 2 cups of cooked rice and adjust the cooking time slightly.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a versatile, hearty dish that’s ideal for family meals or potlucks. It’s a comforting blend of flavors that everyone loves, with tender rice, savory beef, and melted cheese. Simple, satisfying, and easy to customize, this casserole is sure to become a go-to recipe. Enjoy the delicious comfort of this easy, cheesy casserole with family and friends!

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