Description
This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a family dinner. Featuring seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a rich cheesy crust, this casserole combines savory flavors with a creamy texture. Baked to golden perfection, it’s easy to prepare and ideal for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Grains and Dairy
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare it for the casserole.
- Cook the Rice: Cook the white rice according to package instructions until tender and fluffy, then set aside.
- Prepare the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are softened.
- Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked rice, beef broth, sour cream, milk, paprika, salt, and black pepper into the skillet with the browned beef mixture. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a simmer to develop flavor.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly across the dish to prepare for baking.
- Add the Cheddar: Evenly sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the beef and rice mixture. If you desire a crunchy topping, sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy and comforting casserole!
Notes
- Using lean ground beef helps reduce excess fat and makes the dish less greasy.
- You can substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier alternative; adjust cooking time accordingly.
- The breadcrumbs topping is optional but adds a nice crunchy texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
- For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the beef mixture.
