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Cheesy ground beef and rice casserole baked to perfection with melted cheese

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

A warm and comforting casserole that combines browned beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheese over rice, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups cooked white rice Pre-cooked for convenience
  • 1 can cream of mushroom soup Can be substituted with cream of chicken
  • 1/2 cup milk or beef broth
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • Optional: chopped parsley for garnish Fresh herbs brighten the dish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Cooking the Beef
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Making the Sauce
  1. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Assembling the Casserole
  1. In the prepared baking dish, combine cooked rice, beef mixture, half the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well.
Baking
  1. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Optionally, broil for 1 to 2 minutes for a crust.
Serving
  1. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving for better structure.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can freeze individual portions for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for the best results.