This hearty casserole is the ultimate comfort food—layered with savory ground beef, tender rice, and a generous blanket of melted cheese that bubbles and browns to perfection. Each forkful delivers a satisfying blend of textures: the crumbly richness of seasoned beef, the soft chew of rice, and the gooey stretch of cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, offering warmth and flavor in every bite.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can spice it up with jalapeños, sneak in vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, or swap the beef for chicken or lentils. But the classic version—beef, rice, cheese—is timeless. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings people together around the table.
INGREDIENTS:
For the Casserole:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 500g ground beef
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup beef broth or water
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella for extra stretch)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For Topping:
- ½ cup additional shredded cheese
- A sprinkle of chili flakes or herbs (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Layer Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and cumin. Stir in the tomato sauce and beef broth, letting the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 2: Combine with Rice Add the cooked rice to the beef mixture and stir until fully combined. The rice should absorb some of the sauce, creating a cohesive filling. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Lightly grease a baking dish. Spoon half of the beef-rice mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over it. Repeat with the remaining beef-rice mixture and top with the final layer of cheese.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2–3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or chili flakes if desired. Serve warm with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions & Variations:
- Add chopped bell peppers or corn to the beef mixture for extra texture.
- Use brown rice or quinoa for a whole-grain twist.
- Swap beef for ground chicken or lentils for a lighter version.
- Stir in sour cream or cream cheese for a creamier base.