Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm casserole, especially when it’s filled with cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds sing. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table. With layers of savory ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a melty cheese topping, every bite is a comforting hug of flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 cup milk
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), letting it warm up while you prepare the casserole.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s beautifully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep your dish nice and light.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet, sautéing them until they soften, which should take about 5 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible!
- Stir in the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and the milk to the mixture. Stir until the cheese melts and the texture becomes wonderfully creamy.
- Transfer the hearty mixture to a greased 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese generously on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, creating a lovely crust.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the flavors settle a bit.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to customize this casserole with your favorite vegetables or even add some heat with jalapeños if you like a spicy kick! Leftovers are fantastic and can be reheated easily in the microwave or oven.
Cooking Techniques
The key to perfecting this casserole lies in browning the meat properly, which enhances the flavors significantly. Sautéing the vegetables until they are just tender also ensures that they retain some texture when mixed into the creamy filling. Don’t rush the melting of the cheese; allow it to create that heavenly gooeyness that everyone loves!
FAQ
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a dish brimming with warmth and satisfaction. Perfect for any day of the week, it brings family together to enjoy great food and wonderful company. Try it out, and watch as it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your household!