A comforting and hearty casserole featuring seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a generous blanket of melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck!
Ingredients:
- For the Beef Layer:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce.
- For the Rice Layer:
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain rice
- 3 cups beef broth or beef bouillon.
- For the Cheese Layer:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef Layer:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Cook the Rice:
- While the sauce simmers, in a medium saucepan, bring the beef broth to a boil.
- Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Spread the cooked rice evenly in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Pour the beef mixture over the rice, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar and Monterey jack cheese over the beef layer.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.
- Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Optional Additions:
- Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or corn to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving for a touch of freshness.
- Add a layer of sliced bell peppers on top of the rice before adding the beef.
- Add a can of drained and rinsed diced green chilies to the beef mixture for a little spice.
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef & Rice Casserole!