Are you searching for a mouthwatering, crowd-pleasing dish that combines the hearty goodness of ground beef with the creamy, cheesy comfort of a classic casserole? Look no further! This Ground Beef Casserole II is about to become your new go-to recipe that promises to transform an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience. With its perfect blend of savory beef, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters and leave everyone at the table asking for more!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it is hot and ready for baking the casserole.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the 1 pound of ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Break up any large chunks with a spatula.
- Once the ground beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent.
- Stir in the can of tomato sauce, cooked rice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined and heated through. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spread the beef and rice mixture evenly across the bottom.
- Sprinkle the 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, carefully remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the Ground Beef Casserole II warm, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Tips
- Choose the Right Beef: Opt for ground beef with a moderate fat content (80/20) for the most flavor and juiciness.
- Drain Excess Fat: Always drain the fat after browning the beef to prevent a greasy casserole.
- Rice Matters: Use day-old or slightly cooled rice to prevent the casserole from becoming mushy.
- Cheese Variation: Experiment with different cheese blends like cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend for added flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled earlier in the day and refrigerated, then baked when ready to serve.
- Customize Your Casserole: Add diced bell peppers, garlic, or your favorite herbs to personalize the recipe.
- Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking to help it set and make serving easier.
- Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 375kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 85mg
