Prep Time 10 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 50 mins
Cooking Method: Baking, Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Courses: Dinner, Lunch
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 180  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

This one-pot ground beef and rice casserole is a savory, hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with seasoned beef, rice, vegetables, and a creamy blend of flavors, this casserole is not only comforting but also easy to make and clean up after. Ready in under an hour, it's a family-friendly meal that is both budget-friendly and satisfying.

Ingredients
    For the Base:
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Topping:
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
    Brown the Beef
  1. 1
    In a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics
  3. 2
    Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
  4. Combine Rice and Vegetables
  5. 3
    Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, beef broth, frozen peas and carrots, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, ensuring everything is well combined.
  6. Cook the Casserole
  7. 4
    Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid or aluminum foil. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (180°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and tender. Remove from the oven.
  8. Add the Cheese
  9. 5
    Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan over the top of the casserole. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Rest and Serve
  11. 6
    Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
Note

For a spicier version, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy diced tomatoes.

This dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

You can substitute the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for more flavor and nutrition.

Keywords: quick, easy, budget-friendly, one-pot, hearty
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/one-pot-ground-beef-and-rice-casserole/