Why spend hours in the kitchen when a comforting, hearty meal can come together in under 30 minutes?
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Ultimate Cozy Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
A hearty beef and rice casserole with tender vegetables and creamy cheese topping, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 40
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
🥄 1 lb ground beef
🥄 1 medium onion (chopped)
🥄 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
🥄 1 cup uncooked rice
🥄 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
🥄 1 1/2 cups beef broth
🥄 1 tsp salt
🥄 1/2 tsp black pepper
🥄 1 tsp garlic powder
🥄 1/2 tsp paprika
🥄 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
👨🍳 Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, draining excess fat after 8-10 minutes.
👨🍳 Add chopped onion and bell pepper, sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
👨🍳 Stir in uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with juices, and beef broth.
👨🍳 Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
👨🍳 Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 20 minutes without stirring.
👨🍳 Uncover, sprinkle cheese on top, and let melt for 2-3 minutes.
👨🍳 Serve hot directly from the skillet.
Notes
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on stovetop or in the microwave. Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8
- Sodium: 400
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 15
Ultimate Cozy Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
This easy casserole delivers rich, savory flavors in every bite. Ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and creamy rice come together in one pan for a satisfying one-pot meal that feeds a family.
How to Prep This Comforting Casserole
Start by browning 1 pound ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat after cooking for 8-10 minutes. Add 1 chopped onion and 1 chopped green bell pepper. Sauté until vegetables are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
How to Layer the Flavor
Stir in 1 cup uncooked rice and 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with their juices. Pour in 1½ cups beef broth and season with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
How to Achieve That Golden Finish
Cover the skillet tightly and simmer for 20 minutes without stirring. The rice will absorb most of the liquid, creating a creamy, casserole-like texture. Uncover and sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top. Let it melt for 2-3 minutes until bubbly.
How to Boost Flavor With Simple Tips
If the rice is still firm after 20 minutes, add a splash of beef broth. For extra depth, add ¼ teaspoon cumin or a dash of red pepper flakes. Use a sharp cheddar for more complex flavors.
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or water if it thickens too much. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How to Customize This Casserole
Switch to ground turkey or pork for a lighter version. Swap cheddar with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different melt. Add frozen corn or peas for extra vegetables. Top with sour cream or diced jalapeños for a kick.
The Perfect One-Pot Meal
This beef and rice casserole makes an ideal family dinner. It’s filling, simple to prepare, and pairs beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. The creamy texture contrasts perfectly with the hearty beef base.
