Description
A comforting and hearty Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and a melty sharp cheddar cheese topping baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Casserole Mixture
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 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 prevent sticking.
- Cook the Rice: Prepare the white rice according to the package instructions until fully cooked and fluffy. Set aside.
- Prepare the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking together for 5-7 minutes until the onions are soft and beef is fully cooked.
- Combine the Ingredients: To the skillet with the beef mixture, add the cooked rice, beef broth, sour cream, milk, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to meld the flavors.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and rice mixture evenly into the greased baking dish, spreading it flat for uniform baking.
- Add the Cheddar: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If using, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese to add a crispy topping.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, savory ground beef and rice casserole!
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content of the casserole.
- Breadcrumbs on top add a crunchy texture but can be omitted for a softer topping.
- Ensure the rice is fully cooked before mixing to avoid a hard texture in the casserole.
- For a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder when combining ingredients.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
