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Cozy Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

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A warm, comforting casserole combining savory ground beef, tender rice, and melted sharp cheddar cheese, perfect for easy weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice (190 g)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth (480 ml), low-sodium preferred
  • 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (200 g), divided
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp paprika

Instructions

  1. Rinse 1 cup (190 g) of rice under cold water until clear. Combine with 2 cups (480 ml) of water or beef broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes (white rice) or about 40 minutes (brown rice) until tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
  2. While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, breaking it up with your spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Add finely chopped onion (1 medium) and minced garlic (2 cloves) to the skillet. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano and paprika, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Stir in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce and drained 14.5 oz (410 g) can of diced tomatoes. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and excess moisture to reduce.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and beef mixture. Fold in 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream and 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir gently until everything is evenly mixed.
  6. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup (50 g) cheddar cheese evenly on top for a bubbly, cheesy crust.
  7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown around the edges.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If cheese browns too quickly, tent with foil to prevent burning. Rest casserole for 5 minutes before serving for easier portioning. Drain diced tomatoes well to avoid soggy casserole. Brown beef in batches to avoid steaming. Season in layers and taste before baking. Instant rice can be used but adjust cooking time and liquid accordingly.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef casserole, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, ground beef recipe, rice casserole, family dinner

Find it online: https://evabakery.com/cozy-cheesy-beef-and-rice-casserole-easy-comforting-dinner-recipe/