🧀 Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Ingredients (6 servings)

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)

• 2 ½ cups beef broth

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (drained)

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef:

   • In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat.

   • Add ground beef and onion, cooking until beef is browned and onion is soft. Drain excess fat.

   • Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute.

2. Mix the Base:

   • Add rice, beef broth, cream soup, diced tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

   • Stir well to combine.

3. Simmer:

   • Bring mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat, cover, and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender. (Add a splash more broth if needed.)

4. Make it Cheesy:

   • Stir in 1 cup cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

5. Bake (Optional but Extra Cheesy!):

   • Transfer to a greased 9×13 baking dish.

   • Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cheddar on top.

   • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

6. Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.