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Cozy Cheesy Smothered Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

cheesy smothered ground beef and rice casserole - featured image
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A simple, comforting casserole combining ground beef, fluffy rice, and melty cheese in a savory tomato and broth sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners and easy to prepare in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) ground beef, lean or regular (80/20 recommended)
  • 1 cup (190g) uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce, smooth or chunky
  • 1 ½ cups (360ml) beef broth, homemade or low-sodium store-bought
  • 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded cheddar cheese, sharp or mild
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or a mix of oregano and basil
  • ¼ cup (60ml) milk or cream (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and set aside.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add 1 pound (450g) ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until no longer pink, about 7-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
  5. Stir in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well.
  6. Stir in 1 cup (190g) uncooked long-grain white rice, 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce, and 1 ½ cups (360ml) beef broth. If using, add ¼ cup (60ml) milk or cream. Stir to combine.
  7. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading evenly.
  8. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  9. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is melted and golden around the edges.
  10. Remove from oven and let sit for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If cheese browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking. If rice is not tender near the end, add a splash of broth and cover for a few extra minutes. Leftovers reheat well in microwave or oven with a splash of broth to maintain moisture. For gluten-free, verify broth and Worcestershire sauce labels. Brown rice can be used but requires longer cooking time and more liquid.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef casserole, cheesy casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, rice casserole, smothered beef, cheesy ground beef, quick casserole

Find it online: https://noshbelle.com/cozy-cheesy-smothered-ground-beef-and-rice-casserole-recipe-easy-comfort-food/