Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Ingredients

For the beef layer

500 g ground beef

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp oregano

1 tsp black pepper

1 tsp salt

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 cup (240 ml) beef broth or water

1 tbsp oil

For the creamy rice layer

2 cups cooked rice (about 350–400 g cooked)

200 ml heavy cream OR sour cream

1 cup mozzarella, shredded

½ cup cheddar, shredded

½ tsp salt

½ tsp pepper

For topping

1 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella + cheddar mix)

Instructions

1. Cook the beef

Heat oil in a pan.

Add onions → cook until soft.

Add garlic → 30 seconds.

Add ground beef and brown it.

Add paprika, oregano, salt, pepper.

Stir in tomato paste + beef broth.

Simmer 5–7 minutes until thick and saucy.

2. Prepare the creamy rice

In a bowl, mix:

cooked rice

heavy cream or sour cream

mozzarella

cheddar

salt + pepper

Mix until creamy and well combined.

3. Assemble the casserole

Preheat oven to 190°C / 375°F.

Grease a baking dish.

Spread the ground beef layer on the bottom.

Add the creamy rice mixture on top.

Sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.

4. Bake

Bake 20–25 minutes, or until:

✓ cheese is golden

✓ top is bubbly

✓ center is hot and creamy

✨ Tips for Extra Deliciousness

Add 1 tbsp Worcestershire to the meat for deeper flavor.

Add chili flakes if you want a spicy kick.

Use jasmine rice for extra creaminess.

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before cutting.