Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole — One-Pan Comfort in Just 30 Minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole — One-Pan Weeknight Comfort
This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the perfect one-pan solution for a busy weeknight. Cooking the rice directly in beef broth and tomato sauce ensures every grain soaks up the rich, savory flavors of the meat and aromatics. Hearty, satisfying, and easy to make, it goes from stovetop to table in just 30 minutes—plus, cleanup is a breeze.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 cup corn, black beans, or green chilies
Directions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Cook the Rice
Add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer, then lower heat to low. Cover and cook 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup over the top.
Step 4: Broil and Rest
For a golden finish, broil 2–3 minutes until the cheese bubbles and browns slightly. Let rest 5 minutes before serving—this helps the casserole thicken and gives it perfect texture.
