Print

Creamy One-Pot Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

creamy one-pot cheesy beef and rice casserole - featured image
Print Recipe

A comforting, creamy, and cheesy one-pot casserole combining ground beef, rice, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for busy weeknights with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (85% lean or lean)
  • 1 cup long grain white rice (190 g)
  • 2 ½ cups beef broth (600 ml), low-sodium recommended
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (170 g)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • ½ cup milk (whole or 2%, 120 ml), dairy-free alternatives like oat milk work too
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering (about 1-2 minutes).
  2. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent and soft, around 4-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until no pink remains, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary, leaving a little for flavor.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for 2 minutes to combine flavors.
  5. Add 1 cup long grain white rice and 2 ½ cups beef broth. Stir to distribute evenly and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  6. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Remove lid and stir in ½ cup milk and 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir gently until cheese melts into a creamy sauce coating the beef and rice.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness.
  9. Serve warm immediately or let cool slightly to set before serving.

Notes

Do not rush the simmering step; if rice isn’t tender, keep lid on a few extra minutes. Stir in milk and cheese off heat to prevent cheese separation. For a crunchy top, broil 1-2 minutes watching closely. Use a tight-fitting lid or foil to trap steam. Frozen diced onions can be used but fresh is better. Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken with seasoning adjustments. For gluten-free, verify broth and tomato paste labels.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pot, casserole, cheesy beef, rice casserole, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food, quick recipe

Find it online: https://forkifyfun.com/creamy-one-pot-cheesy-beef-and-rice-casserole-easy-recipe-for-busy-weeknights/