Looking for a warm, hearty dish that’s simple to make? You’ll love this Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole! With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Packed with flavor from ground beef, rice, and sharp cheddar cheese, it’s sure to satisfy your whole family. Let’s dive into the recipe and make dinnertime a breeze!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
Aromatics and Seasonings
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked for an extra flavor boost)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Additional Ingredients
– 2 cups beef broth (preferably low-sodium)
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (a blend of peas, carrots, and corn works great)
– ½ cup milk (whole milk or your preferred alternative)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for a vibrant garnish)
This dish combines flavors and textures to create a hearty meal. The ground beef provides a rich base, while white rice absorbs the broth and flavors. Sharp cheddar cheese adds a wonderful crust on top. Each ingredient plays a key role in making this casserole delicious.
You can find the full recipe to guide you through the steps. Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Phase
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 medium onion, finely chopped, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté until the onion turns soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Cooking the Beef and Rice
– Increase the heat slightly and add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and brown it for about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish light.
– Next, stir in 1 cup of uncooked white rice, 2 cups of beef broth, and 1 cup of frozen mixed vegetables. Add 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, ½ teaspoon of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice absorbs most of the liquid and is tender.
Final Steps before Baking
– Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in ½ cup of milk to make it creamy.
– Carefully pour the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top.
– Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Wait until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
– After baking, let it cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the cheese set and makes it easier to serve.
For detailed instructions, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To make this dish shine, brown the ground beef well. This step adds deep flavor. Use medium to high heat to get that nice color. Keep an eye on it and stir often to avoid burning. The right cooking time depends on the rice you choose. White rice cooks faster than brown rice. If you use brown rice, increase the cooking time by about 10 minutes. Always check the rice for doneness before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Garnish the casserole with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This adds a nice touch to your dish. You can also serve it with a crisp green salad. A light salad balances the richness of the casserole. For a heartier meal, consider garlic bread on the side. It complements the cheesy crust perfectly.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want a lighter option, use ground turkey instead of beef. It tastes great and is healthier. For cheese lovers, try different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda. Each will bring a unique flavor twist to the casserole. Have fun mixing and matching to suit your taste! You can find the Full Recipe to guide you through these swaps.
Variations
Healthier Options
You can easily make this dish a bit healthier. First, swap white rice for brown rice. Brown rice has more fiber and nutrients. It will add a nice chewy texture, too. Another option is to use low-fat cheese. This change keeps the flavor while cutting calories.
Flavor Enhancements
To boost the flavor, try adding spices like cayenne or Italian seasoning. These spices bring warmth and depth to the dish. You can also add fresh vegetables. Bell peppers or spinach work well. They add color and nutrients to your casserole.
One-Pan Adaptation
For a simpler method, cook everything in one pan. Start by browning the beef in a large skillet. Add the rice, broth, and veggies all in the same pan. This saves time and reduces dishes. You still get that tasty, cheesy crust on top.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
To keep your Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole fresh, store it in the fridge. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and prevents spills. You can store it for up to three days.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze this casserole for later. First, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. For extra protection, place it in a freezer bag or container. This helps avoid freezer burn. It can stay in the freezer for up to three months.
When you’re ready to eat, take it out of the freezer. Place it in the fridge overnight to defrost. This keeps the texture nice.
Reheating Guidelines
You can reheat the casserole in two ways: microwave or oven. For the microwave, place a portion on a microwave-safe plate. Heat it for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with foil to keep it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until it’s hot.
Both methods work well, but the oven helps keep the crispy cheese crust. Enjoy your leftovers just like the first time!
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare and cook Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
It takes about 50 minutes in total. You need 15 minutes for prep and around 35 minutes for cooking. This makes it a great choice for a busy weeknight meal.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole in advance. Cook the beef and rice mixture as directed, then let it cool. Cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, just top with cheese and bake.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. For a plant-based option, try lentils or a meat substitute like tofu. These alternatives will also work well in this dish.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely first. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge before baking.
Can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you like it spicy, add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. For a milder dish, reduce the black pepper or skip the paprika. Customizing the spice level makes it your own.
Where can I find the full recipe?
You can find the full recipe [here](#) for detailed instructions on making Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. This will guide you through each step to ensure a delicious meal.
This blog provided a complete guide for making Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and handy storage tips. You saw how to enhance flavors and adapt for your diet. Remember, cooking can be fun and flexible. Try different spices or add veggies to make it yours. Enjoy your time cooking, and don’t forget to share your delicious results! Your perfect casserole awaits.
