Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy and Savory: The cheddar cheese creates a rich, tangy flavor with a perfect golden crust.
- Hearty and Filling: Ground beef and rice make for a satisfying meal that will keep you full for hours.
- Easy to Make: A one-pan recipe that’s perfect for busy days and simple meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Directions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the Rice:
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions.
3. 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 onion and garlic and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
- Add cooked rice, beef broth, sour cream, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
6. Add the Cheddar:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Add breadcrumbs for extra texture, if desired.
7. Bake:
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
8. Serve:
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, comforting casserole!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 35-40 minutes
- Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Use Brown Rice: For a healthier alternative, swap white rice for brown rice. Be sure to cook it first as brown rice takes longer.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the casserole for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Conclusion
Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect family-friendly meal, packed with flavor, texture, and comfort. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
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Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
Description
Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, featuring savory ground beef, tender rice, and a crispy, golden cheddar cheese crust. This one-pan dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a hearty, flavorful meal that’s quick to prepare and sure to please.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
1 cup white rice (uncooked)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
½ cup milk
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. -
Cook the Rice:
Cook the rice according to package instructions. -
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 onion and garlic, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the beef is browned. -
Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooked rice, beef broth, sour cream, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. -
Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer the beef and rice mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly. -
Add the Cheddar:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs if desired. -
Bake:
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown. -
Serve:
Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, comforting casserole!
Notes
Use Brown Rice: Swap white rice for brown rice for a healthier option (cook first as brown rice takes longer).
Add Veggies: Add bell peppers, peas, or other vegetables to enhance flavor and nutrition.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
