Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

1 pound ground beef

1 small onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

2 cups beef broth

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken, if preferred)

1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel), undrained (optional but adds flavor)

1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp paprika (optional for extra flavor)

1 tbsp olive oil or butter

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Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion until beef is browned and onions are soft. Drain excess grease.

3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes (if using), salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.

5. Transfer everything to a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover tightly with foil.

6. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until rice is fully cooked and liquid is absorbed. Remove foil.

7. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top and return to oven for 10 more minutes, uncovered, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips:

Add cooked bell peppers, corn, or peas for extra veggies.

Use brown rice for a healthier twist but increase liquid and baking time slightly.