Easy Baked Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
A beloved family meal that combines heartiness with a delicious flair, bursting with flavors and perfect for cozy gatherings.
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.