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Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Casserole

easy cheesy ground beef and rice skillet casserole - featured image
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A quick and comforting one-pan casserole combining savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 preferred)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 2 cups beef broth (can substitute chicken or vegetable broth)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley or green onions

Instructions

  1. Heat the skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Warm for about 1 minute until shimmering.
  2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Increase heat to medium-high, add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Season the beef with smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let spices toast for about 1 minute.
  5. Stir in rinsed rice and tomato sauce, coating everything evenly.
  6. Pour in 2 cups of beef broth, stir once, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover with lid, and simmer for 18-20 minutes without lifting the lid.
  7. Check rice doneness; if still firm, add a splash more broth or water and cook a few more minutes.
  8. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, cover again, and let melt for 3-4 minutes off the heat.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and serve hot.

Notes

Rinsing the rice before cooking prevents it from becoming gummy. Keep the heat low during simmering to avoid undercooked rice or evaporated liquid. Draining excess fat mid-way keeps the dish from being greasy. For smoother cheese melting, you can briefly broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef casserole, cheesy rice skillet, easy weeknight dinner, one-pan meal, comfort food

Find it online: https://novanosh.com/easy-cheesy-ground-beef-and-rice-skillet-casserole-recipe-for-busy-weeknights/