Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines ground beef, rice, and cheese into a delicious one-pan meal. Here’s a simple recipe to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or any cream soup)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a cheese blend)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika for extra flavor
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat, then add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix well and season with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it evenly.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 30 minutes. Then remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cheesy ground beef and rice casserole!
Absolutely! You can definitely add different vegetables to the cheesy ground beef and rice casserole to enhance the dish. Some great options include:
- Broccoli: Adds a nice crunch and is a healthy addition.
- Carrots: Diced or shredded, they add sweetness and color.
- Spinach: Fresh or frozen, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens.
- Corn: Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
- Zucchini: Diced zucchini can add moisture and flavor.
Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly. You can sauté them with the ground beef or mix them in raw, depending on your preference. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and textures!
This dish is great for a family meal and can be customized with your favorite spices and vegetables!