Easy Baked Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Created on December 17th, 2025 at 10:59 am

An Unforgettable Comfort Dish

Imagine the rich aroma of savory herbs and spices filling the kitchen as you prepare a beloved family meal. Pin by Elizabeth De Witt on main dish in 2025 combines heartiness with a delicious flair that makes it impossible to resist. Each bite bursts with flavors that dance on your palate, bringing together tender textures and the comforting warmth of a well-cooked dish. The golden crust forming on the top creates a beautiful contrast against the vibrant colors of blends. When you take that first serving, you’ll be greeted by a delightful crunch followed by the soft and fulfilling interior that melts in your mouth.

As you pull the dish from the oven, a sense of accomplishment fills the air. The inviting warmth radiates, welcoming everyone to the table. This dish is not just food; it’s a promise of comfort, joy, and togetherness. It sparks conversations and laughter, warming hearts as much as it fills bellies. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends. Every bite tells a story, making it a treasured recipe that you’ll find yourself returning to time and time again.

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Kitchen Utensils

Having the right tools in your kitchen is essential for a smooth cooking process. Simple, reliable utensils go a long way in ensuring that the meal comes together beautifully without breaking the bank. With just a few practical items, you’ll find cooking to be a delightful and easy experience.

• Oven-safe baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

A Family Tradition

Growing up, mealtime was a ritual in my home, filled with laughter and flavors that brought us closer together. My grandmother had a knack for cooking dishes that could turn any day into a special occasion. One of her hallmark recipes was the one that inspired Pin by Elizabeth De Witt on main dish in 2025. It became a family favorite, filled with love and warmth.

Every Sunday, we would gather around the dining table and share stories of our week. The dish brought everyone together, and its aroma wafting through the house would put smiles on our faces. As the years passed, I began to tweak the recipe just a bit, adding my own flair while keeping the heart of it intact. Now, preparing this meal feels like a loving embrace from my grandmother, connecting generations of cooks. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with friends, this dish has magic in its layers, creating new memories with every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or veggie substitute)
• 1 cup diced onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 ounces)
• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions

The journey of putting this meal together is as much a treat as savoring the final product. Chop the vibrant bell peppers and the aromatic onions, their textures glistening in the light. As you sauté the meat, the sizzle fills the kitchen with a mouthwatering scent. The dance of flavors builds as garlic and spices mingle, creating an enticing melody. Stirring it all together, you see the colors brighten as the tomatoes add a juicy pop, marrying beautifully with the rich seasoning.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing until softened.
3. Stir in the ground meat, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Mix in the canned tomatoes, cooked rice, and season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors mingle.
5. Transfer the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish. If using, sprinkle cheese on top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Substitutions

• For a vegetarian option, you can swap the ground meat for lentils or a meat substitute.
• Feel free to toss in other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Experiment with different cheese types, such as mozzarella or feta, for a unique twist.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a chopped jalapeño or red pepper flakes.
• For added texture, top with crushed tortilla chips before baking or serve with a side of fresh salad.

Storage & Make Ahead

When it comes to storing leftovers, this dish keeps its flavor intact, making it ideal for meal prep. Store any extra portions in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing it; it will last up to three months in the freezer. When reheating, pop it back in the oven for a few minutes to bring back its lovely texture and warmth. You can also make the filling a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully before baking it. Preparing side items ahead of time can make for an easy dinner rush.

FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge.

What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheating in the oven is best for maintaining texture, but you can also microwave it in short intervals.

Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Add more or less paprika and pepper to suit your taste preferences.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you choose gluten-free rice or quinoa, it’s a suitable option.

Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to include any veggies you love.

Warm Encounters

Creating Pin by Elizabeth De Witt on main dish in 2025 is not just about cooking; it’s about bringing loved ones together and celebrating flavors. I hope you find joy in making this dish and creating memories that last a lifetime. Your kitchen will hum with laughter, stories, and the wonderful aroma that only a home-cooked meal can bring. So gather your loved ones, share this recipe, and let it warm your hearts and bellies. Happy cooking!

Easy Baked Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Roberto

A beloved family meal that combines heartiness with a delicious flair, bursting with flavors and perfect for cozy gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or veggie substitute)
• 1 cup diced onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 whole bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 ounces)
• 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) Use any type of cheese you prefer.

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers, sautéing until softened.
• Stir in the ground meat, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
• Mix in the canned tomatoes, cooked rice, and season with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, letting the flavors mingle.
• Transfer the mixture into an oven-safe baking dish. If using, sprinkle cheese on top.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For a vegetarian option, swap the ground meat for lentils or a meat substitute. You can add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition. To add a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeño or red pepper flakes.

Keyword Baked Dish, Comfort Food, Cozy Dinner, Family Recipe, Hearty Meal