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In the realm of comforting and satisfying meals, few dishes can compete with the allure of a One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole. This recipe embodies the essence of home-cooked goodness, merging the rich flavors of seasoned beef, the wholesome texture of rice, and the creamy delight of melted cheese—all in a single, convenient pan. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or simply looking for a dish that requires minimal cleanup, this casserole is sure to hit the spot.

One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole. Combining seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and melty cheese, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Simple to prepare and easy to clean up, it features nutritious ingredients like corn and tomatoes that add flavor and texture. Customize it to your liking with different proteins or spices, and enjoy a hearty meal the whole family will love!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb ground beef

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies

2 cups beef broth

1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon chili powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon olive oil

Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Preheat & Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather all the ingredients you'll need, and choose an oven-safe skillet or a large casserole dish for cooking.

    Sauté Vegetables: In your chosen large oven-safe skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for approximately 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Incorporate the minced garlic into the mixture and continue to cook for an additional minute until it releases its aromatic fragrance.

      Brown the Beef: Raise the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef into the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. Sauté the beef for about 5 to 7 minutes, until it’s browned and fully cooked. If there is any excess grease, carefully drain it from the skillet.

        Add Rice & Seasonings: Introduce the uncooked rice, the diced tomatoes along with their juices, beef broth, corn kernels, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

          Bring to a Boil: Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for roughly 15 minutes, during which the rice will absorb most of the liquid and become tender. Stir occasionally to keep the rice from sticking to the bottom.

            Add Cheese: After the rice has cooked through, take the skillet off the heat. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. For an extra cheesy touch, feel free to add a bit more cheese if desired!

              Bake: Position the skillet in your preheated oven (if your skillet isn’t oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish). Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and has turned a lovely golden brown color.

                Garnish & Serve: Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for a few moments before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley, if you like. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty dish!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings