Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked white rice
• 2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of cheddar (or cream of chicken)
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil or butter for sautéing

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add diced onion and garlic; sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Stir in uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, cream of cheddar, frozen vegetables (if using), 1 cup cheddar cheese, paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread evenly.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until rice is tender and cooked through.
7. Remove foil, sprinkle remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra parsley if desired.

Would you like a variation with a Tex-Mex or Italian twist?