Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup

• ½ cup sour cream

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• ½ cup mozzarella cheese (for topping)

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

🔥 Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat

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

2️⃣ Cook the Beef

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.

2. Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Drain excess grease if needed.

3️⃣ Mix the Filling

1. Stir uncooked rice into the beef mixture.

2. Add beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1½ cups cheddar cheese.

3. Mix well until fully combined.

4️⃣ Bake

1. Pour mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

2. Cover tightly with foil.

3. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until rice is tender.

5️⃣ Add the Cheese Topping

1. Remove foil.

2. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheddar and mozzarella over the top.

3. Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until melted and bubbly.

4. Optional: Broil 2–3 minutes for a golden top.

6️⃣ Rest & Serve

Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

✨ Optional Add-Ins

• ½ cup sautéed mushrooms

• 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables

• Swap cream of mushroom for cream of cheddar or cream of chicken

• Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth