Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat & Prepare the Baking Dish

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2️⃣ Cook the Beef & Onion Mixture

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, until soft.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
5. Drain any excess grease, then stir in tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Let simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

3️⃣ Mix & Assemble the Casserole

1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese.
2. Stir in the beef mixture until well combined.
3. Transfer everything into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

4️⃣ Add the Cheddar Crust & Bake

1. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
2. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for extra color and flavor! 🌿

🍽️ How to Serve This Cheesy Casserole

✔ As a Main Dish – Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables! 🥗
✔ With a Side of Garlic Bread – Because who doesn’t love extra carbs? 🥖
✔ As a Make-Ahead Meal – Perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully!

🛠️ Storage & Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Let cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave in 30-second bursts.

💖 Why You’ll Love This Recipe!

✔ Ultra-Cheesy & Flavor-Packed – The crispy cheddar crust is irresistible! 🧀

✔ One-Pan Wonder – Everything comes together in one dish! 🍲
✔ Super Easy to Make – Simple ingredients, big flavor!
✔ Great for Meal Prep & Freezing – Make ahead and enjoy all week!

This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is hearty, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors! It’s the perfect comfort food for the whole family! 🍲🧀