Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup tomato sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the beef
   In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with onion and garlic. Drain excess grease.
3. Mix the filling
   In a large bowl, combine:
   • Cooked beef mixture
   • Cooked rice
   • Cream soup
   • Milk
   • Tomato sauce (if using)
   • 1 cup shredded cheese
   • Salt, pepper, and seasonings
4. Assemble the casserole
   Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish.
   Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheese on top.
5. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
6. Serve
   Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.