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High-angle shot of Ground Beef and Rice Casserole showing browned beef and bubbling cheddar cheese.

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: The Ultimate Cheesy Comfort Food

This Ground Beef and Rice Casserole features savory browned beef, fluffy long-grain rice, and a rich tomato base, all topped with a bubbly, golden-brown sharp cheddar crust. Perfect for a quick, family-friendly weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb (450g) Lean Ground Beef 85/15 preferred
  • 3 cups (600g) Cooked Long-Grain White Rice Chilled or room temp
  • 2 cups (225g) Sharp Orange Cheddar Cheese Freshly grated
  • 15 oz (425g) Tomato Sauce Savory base
  • 1 tbsp (15ml) Olive Oil
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley & Green Onions Chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • 1 White Ceramic Rectangular Baking Dish Standard 9x13 size
  • 1 Large Skillet For browning beef

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it into small crumbles. Cook until thoroughly browned and caramelized.
  2. Stir in the tomato sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture is thick and a deep reddish-brown color.
  3. Fold the cooked rice into the beef mixture until evenly coated. Transfer to a white ceramic baking dish.
  4. Layer the sharp orange cheddar cheese on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is bubbling with toasted golden-brown spots.

Notes

Use pre-cooked rice to prevent the casserole from becoming mushy.
Garnish immediately after baking for the best visual contrast.