A creamy, cheesy, and comforting baked casserole with ground beef, rice, and melty cheddar. Easy to make ahead, freezer-friendly, and family-approved.
1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom or cheddar soup
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
Optional: parsley, chopped
Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Sauté onion in olive oil, then add beef and cook until browned. Add garlic and seasonings.
Stir in rice, tomatoes (with juice), broth, soup, and 1½ cups cheese.
Pour into baking dish. Cover with foil and bake 45–50 minutes.
Uncover, top with remaining cheese, and bake 10 more minutes until bubbly.
Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Use cooked rice for faster version; reduce broth.
Add veggies for a one-dish meal.
Freezes well before or after baking.