Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

🕒 Prep Time: 15 min

⏳ Cook Time: 35-40 min

🍽️ Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked white rice (long grain or jasmine)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of cheddar soup (optional for extra cheesiness)
• 2 cups beef broth (or water + bouillon)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional but flavorful)
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown the beef:
   In a skillet, heat olive oil. Add diced onion and cook 2–3 min. Add ground beef, break it up, and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed. Add garlic and cook 1 min more.
3. Mix everything:
   In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, uncooked rice, cream soups, broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, pepper, and 1 ½ cups cheese.
4. Pour into a casserole dish:
   Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Pour mixture in and spread evenly. Cover with foil.
5. Bake:
   • Covered for 30 minutes
   • Uncover, sprinkle more cheese on top, and bake 10-15 more minutes until bubbly and rice is tender.
7. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

💡 Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup frozen peas or corn
• ½ cup diced bell pepper
• Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken
• Top with crushed Ritz crackers or crispy onions for crunch