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Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole with Cheese

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Introduction

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a hearty beef and rice casserole loaded with melted cheese. This dish is warm, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or a potluck gathering.

The combination of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese creates an irresistible dish that’s easy to make and customizable with your favorite ingredients. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious creation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Easy to Make – Uses simple pantry ingredients and takes less than an hour.
✔ Budget-Friendly – A filling meal using affordable ingredients.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Stores well in the fridge or freezer.
✔ Customizable – Adjust the seasonings, add vegetables, or switch up the protein.
✔ Kid-Friendly – A cheesy, comforting dish that even picky eaters will enjoy.

Ingredients for Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole

Main Ingredients:

  • 500g ground beef
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil

Seasonings & Spices:

  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  • Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to preheat while you prepare the casserole.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

  1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small chunks.
  5. Season with paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper, stirring to mix evenly.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Sauce

  1. Once the beef is fully cooked, pour in the canned tomatoes.
  2. Stir well and let simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

  1. Grease a casserole dish with oil or butter.
  2. Spread half of the cooked rice as the first layer.
  3. Add half of the beef mixture on top.
  4. Sprinkle with a layer of cheese.
  5. Repeat the layers: rice, beef mixture, and finish with the remaining cheese on top.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

  1. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven.
  2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  3. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

🍽 Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
🥄 Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra flavor.
🌮 Serve with warm tortillas for a fun Mexican-style twist.

See also  Creamy Beef Shells Casserole

Tips for the Best Beef and Rice Casserole

✔ Use Freshly Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Rice – Keep it slightly firm (al dente) so it doesn’t turn mushy.
✔ Let the Casserole Rest – This helps the layers firm up and makes serving easier.
✔ Try Different Cheese Combinations – Mix cheddar with Gouda, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for more flavor.

Delicious Variations & Substitutions

1. Swap the Meat

  • Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter version.

2. Make it Vegetarian

  • Replace beef with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat.

3. Add More Vegetables

  • Stir in diced bell peppers, spinach, zucchini, or corn for extra nutrition.

4. Spice it Up

  • Add chili flakes, cumin, or jalapeños for a bolder flavor.

How to Store & Reheat

Refrigeration:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

  • Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

  • Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 25 minutes
🍽 Servings: 4

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories ~450 kcal
Protein ~25g
Fat ~20g
Carbs ~40g
Fiber ~3g
Sugar ~4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready.

2. How long does this casserole last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! Cool it completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.

4. Can I make this casserole spicy?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for a kick.

5. What other cheeses work well in this recipe?

Try a mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère for more flavor.

Conclusion

This Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole with Cheese is the perfect comfort food—rich, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prep, or a gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit!

With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole is a go-to recipe for busy nights. Plus, it’s customizable, freezer-friendly, and incredibly delicious.

Give this classic dish a try, and it’s bound to become a staple in your kitchen!