Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a baking dish with a little oil or cooking spray. Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.
Top the casserole with the grated cheese, making sure to cover the entire surface. You can use mozzarella for a melty.
stretchy texture or cheddar for a sharp, tangy flavor, or even combine both for a balanced taste.
Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
bubbly, and slightly golden. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
How to Make
Start by preparing all your ingredients before you begin cooking to ensure a smooth process. Cook the rice ahead of time, and have your onion and garlic chopped, so everything is ready when you need it.
If you want to make the casserole even more filling, consider adding some vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or spinach.
These can be sautéed along with the onions and garlic, or added directly to the beef and rice mixture.
When combining the rice with the beef and tomato mixture, make sure the rice is fully coated in the sauce to absorb all the flavors.
This will ensure that each bite of the casserole is packed with a delicious mix of beef, tomatoes, and spices.
To make the casserole extra cheesy, you can reserve a small amount of cheese and sprinkle it on top just before serving for an extra cheesy finish. This also creates a nice, golden crust.
If you prefer a slightly spicier version, you can add some red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the beef mixture.
The heat will complement the richness of the cheese and the savory flavors of the dish.
For a quicker meal, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge.
When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it as instructed, adding an extra few minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
If you’re looking to make a lighter version of this casserole, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken and use brown rice for added fiber.
Variations
There are many ways to put your own spin on this casserole. For a heartier option, you could add some cooked bacon or sausage to the beef mixture for extra flavor and richness.
If you like a more Mediterranean flavor, consider adding some black olives and feta cheese. These will add a salty, briny contrast to the richness of the beef and the creaminess of the cheese.
For a vegetarian variation, replace the ground beef with plant-based protein options like lentils, mushrooms, or a veggie crumbles mix.
You can also add more vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or diced tomatoes, for a more colorful dish.
For a Tex-Mex twist, sprinkle some taco seasoning into the beef mixture and top the casserole with a dollop of sour cream and some fresh cilantro after baking.
You can even use a mix of Mexican cheeses like Monterrey Jack and queso blanco for extra flavor.
If you’re craving more crunch, top the casserole with crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs before baking. This will add a nice texture and extra layer of flavor to the dish.
You can also try making individual servings of this casserole in ramekins or smaller baking dishes for a fun, personalized presentation. This works especially well for a dinner party or family gathering.
For a lighter, low-carb version, consider using cauliflower rice instead of white rice. This substitute lowers the carb count while still providing a similar texture and bulk to the casserole.
Tips
When cooking the ground beef, be sure to drain any excess fat to prevent the casserole from being too greasy. This helps keep the dish balanced and ensures the flavors stand out.
For a creamier casserole, you can stir in a little sour cream or cream cheese with the rice mixture before baking. This will add richness and a velvety texture to the casserole.
If you’re using a glass baking dish, keep an eye on the casserole toward the end of the baking time. Glass can heat up quickly and may cause the cheese to brown faster than you expect.
If you prefer a crispier topping, you can broil the casserole for a few minutes at the end of the baking time. Just watch it closely to ensure the cheese doesn’t burn.
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