Ground beef and rice casserole

Here’s a simple and hearty Ground Beef and Rice Casserole recipe that’s family-friendly and easy to make:

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🍲 Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth or water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook beef and aromatics

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Drain excess fat.

3. Combine casserole ingredients

1. In a large bowl, mix cooked beef mixture, uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, condensed soup, beef broth, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Stir in frozen vegetables if using.

4. Bake

1. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and cover with foil.
2. Bake 45–50 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

5. Add cheese

• Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake an additional 5–10 minutes until melted and bubbly.

6. Serve

• Let casserole rest 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

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🍴 Tips

• Use brown rice for a nuttier flavor; increase cooking time to 60–65 minutes.
• Add spices like cumin or chili powder for a southwestern twist.
• For a creamier version, stir in 1/2 cup sour cream before baking.

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If you want, I can also provide a “slow cooker ground beef and rice casserole” version that cooks hands-off and keeps the casserole extra moist.

Do you want me to make that version?