Name: Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef Provides a hearty, flavorful base for the casserole.; 1 small onion, chopped Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.; 2 cloves garlic, minced For aromatic flavor and a little kick.; 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice This will absorb the flavors of the broth and soup while cooking.; 2 cups beef broth Helps cook the rice and adds a rich, savory flavor.; 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup A creamy element that ties the dish together.; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Melts into the casserole for a cheesy, indulgent bite.; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables) Adds texture, color, and nutrients to the dish.; 1 tsp dried thyme A subtle herb to enhance the flavor of the beef and vegetables.; 1/2 tsp paprika Adds mild spice and enhances the color of the casserole.; Salt and pepper to taste To season the dish to your preference.; 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping) For an extra cheesy finish.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
Provides a hearty, flavorful base for the casserole.
1 small onion, chopped
Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced
For aromatic flavor and a little kick.
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
This will absorb the flavors of the broth and soup while cooking.
2 cups beef broth
Helps cook the rice and adds a rich, savory flavor.
1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
A creamy element that ties the dish together.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Melts into the casserole for a cheesy, indulgent bite.
1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables)
Adds texture, color, and nutrients to the dish.
1 tsp dried thyme
A subtle herb to enhance the flavor of the beef and vegetables.
1/2 tsp paprika
Adds mild spice and enhances the color of the casserole.
Salt and pepper to taste
To season the dish to your preference.
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
For an extra cheesy finish.

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the casserole doesn’t stick.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown 1 lb of ground beef with 1 chopped onion until the beef is fully cooked, and the onion has softened. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.
Add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute, stirring occasionally, to release the flavors of the garlic.

3. Combine the Rice, Broth, and Soup

Stir 1 cup of uncooked long-grain rice into the skillet with the beef mixture.
Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

4. Add Vegetables and Seasonings

Mix in 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots (or mixed vegetables) to the beef and rice mixture.
Sprinkle in 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
Stir everything together until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the beef and rice mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

6. Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap the heat and moisture.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

7. Optional Cheese Topping

If you want a super cheesy casserole, remove the foil, and sprinkle 1/4 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Return the dish to the oven, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes until the mozzarella is melted and slightly golden.

8. Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the casserole set, making it easier to portion out.
Enjoy your delicious cheesy ground beef and rice casserole!