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Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for your casserole.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Combine the Ingredients
- Mix Ingredients: In the skillet with the beef, stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), cream of mushroom soup, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and frozen vegetables (if using). Mix well to combine.
4. Transfer to a Casserole Dish
- Prepare the Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake the Casserole
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This helps the rice cook through and absorb all the delicious flavors.
6. Add Cheese and Finish Baking
- Cheesy Topping: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Continue Baking: Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve
- Cool and Serve: Once done, let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set a little, making it easier to scoop. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Customize with Veggies: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the casserole, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or corn, to boost the nutritional value and flavor.
- Swap the Cheese: While cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a unique twist.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- Add Spice: For those who enjoy a kick, consider adding jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a bit of heat.
Health Considerations
- Balanced Meal: This casserole provides a balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables, making it a complete meal in one dish.
- Portion Control: Enjoy in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake, as the cheese and ground beef can add up in calories.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers flexibility, allowing you to customize it to suit your family’s preferences. So gather your ingredients, bake up this delicious casserole, and savor the smiles around the dinner table!
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