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One-Pot Beef and Rice Casserole

One-Pot Beef and Rice Casserole
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A hearty, comforting One-Pot Beef and Rice Casserole combining tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a savory tomato base cooked all in one pot for easy, flavor-packed meals perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • Optional: substitute with ground turkey or chicken for lighter protein

Grains

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • Optional: substitute with brown rice (increase cooking time and liquid)

Vegetables

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
  • Optional: mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots (amount as preferred)

Liquids & Broth

  • 2 cups beef broth (use gluten-free broth if needed)

Cheese

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella, pepper jack, Monterey Jack)

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, etc.)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: chili powder or cayenne pepper for heat

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon until fully browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed to avoid greasiness.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add diced onions, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Add Rice and Liquids: Stir in the rice to coat it with the beef and vegetable mixture. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the beef broth. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
  4. Simmer Until Tender: Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure the rice absorbs the liquid evenly without burning on the bottom.
  5. Add Cheese and Serve: After the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover again briefly just until the cheese melts. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh vegetables to bring brightness and crunch to balance hearty beef and rice.
  • After browning beef, add a splash of broth to deglaze and scrape up flavorful bits stuck to the pot.
  • Keep the lid on during simmering but check occasionally to prevent rice from burning.
  • Level the rice mixture before cooking for even heat distribution.
  • Add cheese at the end of cooking to keep it creamy and avoid drying out.
  • Reheat leftovers gently using a splash of broth or water to retain moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot, beef casserole, rice casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, weeknight meal, gluten free option

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/one-pot-beef-and-rice-casserole/