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Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: A Beginner’s Guide to Hearty, Cheesy Comfort

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A comforting casserole with ground beef, rice, and a cheesy, crispy cheddar crust. Perfect for easy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 cup frozen corn or peas (optional)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking. Use cooking spray or butter to grease the dish.
  • Cook the Ground Beef:
    • Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. If needed, add olive oil to prevent sticking. Drain any excess grease.
    • Stir in the diced onion, bell pepper (if using), and minced garlic. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened.
    • Season with smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
  • Combine Casserole Ingredients:
    • Stir the uncooked rice into the beef mixture.
    • Add the beef broth, canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), and frozen vegetables (if using).
    • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  • Assemble the Casserole:
    • Transfer the beef and rice mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
    • Cover tightly with foil to prevent drying out.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Check the rice for tenderness by tasting a few grains.
  • Add the Cheddar Crust:
    • In a small bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter.
    • Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the casserole.
  • Bake and Serve:
    • Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
    • Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to set.

Notes

  • Drain excess grease from ground beef.
  • Ensure rice is cooked before adding cheese topping.
  • Sprinkle cheese topping evenly.
  • Let cool slightly before serving.

Find it online: https://paularecipes.com/cheddar-crusted-ground-beef-and-rice-casserole-a-beginners-guide-to-hearty-cheesy-comfort/