Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole with Cheese 🍲🧀✨

A cozy, family-style casserole combining seasoned beef, rice, tomatoes, and plenty of melted cheese.

Ingredients

• 500 grams ground beef
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 can (400g/14 oz) diced or crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups grated cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or a mix)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or any cooking oil)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: Cook Beef Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Add ground beef, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned.
3. Step 3: Add Tomatoes Stir in diced or crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Step 4: Combine with Rice In a large bowl, mix cooked rice with the beef-tomato mixture until evenly combined.
5. Step 5: Assemble Spread mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half the cheese over the top, mix gently, then cover with the remaining cheese.
6. Step 6: Bake Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly with golden edges.
7. Step 7: Serve Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Tips

• Make-ahead: Assemble casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate; bake when ready.
• Variation: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn for extra flavor and texture.
• Cheese lovers: Mix mozzarella for stretch and cheddar for sharpness.

Caption & Engagement

Caption: “Hearty Beef and Rice Casserole—comfort food layered with flavor and melted cheese! 🍲🧀✨”

• Comment prompt: “Would you add veggies or keep it classic?”
• Rotating closers: “Save for your next family dinner.” • “Tag a friend who loves cheesy casseroles.” • “Simple, hearty, and satisfying.”