Name: Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) ground beef; 1 cup uncooked white rice (or 3 cups cooked); 1 small onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

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Introduction

Craving something hearty, cheesy, and satisfying after a long day? This Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is your answer. Packed with flavorful beef, tender rice, melty cheese, and comforting spices, it’s a go-to meal that hits all the right notes. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers both comfort and convenience.

Why will you love it? It's a one-pan wonder, ready in under an hour, using simple pantry staples. Plus, it's a crowd-pleaser — even the picky eaters will ask for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Ready in under 30 minutes (with pre-cooked rice)
✅ Uses everyday pantry ingredients
✅ Freezer-friendly for meal prep
✅ Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins
✅ Cheesy, comforting, and kid-approved
✅ Budget-friendly, no fancy tools required

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole

1 lb (450g) ground beef — lean is best, but any variety works
1 cup uncooked white rice (or 3 cups cooked)
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup beef broth (or water + bouillon cube)
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Pro Tips:
🔸 Use brown rice for extra fiber (but adjust cooking time).
🔸 Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
🔸 Use plant-based cheese for a dairy-free option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the rice according to package instructions if you haven’t already.
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
Add onion and garlic, sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Stir in tomatoes, broth, seasonings, and rice. Mix well to combine.
Simmer on low for 5 minutes, letting flavors blend.
Transfer to a greased casserole dish, spreading evenly.
Sprinkle cheese on top and cover with foil.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 5 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
Garnish with parsley, serve warm, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

🧊 Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
❄️ Freeze individual portions for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tips

🥄 Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of water or broth for moisture.

Variations

🥓 Add crispy bacon for smoky flavor.
🌶 Add diced green chiles or jalapeños for a kick.
🥦 Stir in veggies like peas, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat
450	22g	35g	24g

Note: Nutrition values are estimates and may vary by ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ Can I use brown rice instead of white?
✅ Absolutely! Just adjust cooking time and use a bit more liquid.

❓ Can I make this dairy-free?
✅ Yes – just use your favorite dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast.

❓ Do I have to cook the rice first?
✅ Pre-cooked rice ensures even texture. If using raw rice, add more broth and increase bake time.

❓ Can I prep this ahead?
✅ Totally. Assemble it ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

❓ What other protein can I use?
✅ Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well.

❓ Can I make it spicy?
✅ Sure! Add cayenne, red chili flakes, or hot sauce to the beef mixture.

Conclusion

This recipe of Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the weeknight hero you didn’t know you needed. It’s rich, savory, comforting, and endlessly customizable — perfect for feeding a hungry family or stocking your freezer with make-ahead meals.

👉 Try it tonight and don’t forget to tag us @Simple Recipes on Pinterest!