Go Back
In today's fast-paced world, the convenience of one-pan meals has gained immense popularity among home cooks. These meals not only simplify the cooking process but also minimize cleanup time, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners. Among the myriad of one-pan recipes, the One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole stands out as a comforting, hearty dish that appeals to both adults and children alike. This casserole combines savory ground beef, tender rice, and gooey cheddar cheese, creating a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that is sure to please any palate.

One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole, a dish that promises to satisfy your family's cravings while simplifying your cooking routine. This hearty meal features savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheddar cheese baked to perfection, all in one pan for easy cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings, it's a delicious way to bring everyone together. Dive into the recipe and make this tasty casserole a staple in your kitchen!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

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: Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C). Gather all your ingredients and ensure you have a large oven-safe skillet or a suitable casserole dish ready for cooking.

    Sauté Vegetables: In your skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and softens. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, allowing its aroma to fill the kitchen.

      Brown the Beef: Raise the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef into the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if there is any, to keep the dish from being greasy.

        Add Rice & Seasonings: Incorporate the uncooked rice into the mixture, followed by the diced tomatoes (including their juices), beef broth, corn, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir the mixture diligently until all ingredients are well combined.

          Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, covering the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for approximately 15 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender. Stir occasionally during this time to prevent any sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

            Add Cheese: After the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. For an extra cheesy experience, feel free to add a bit more cheese if you like!

              Bake: Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven (or, if your skillet isn’t oven-safe, pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish first). Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and has turned a delightful golden brown.

                Garnish & Serve: After removing from the oven, allow the casserole to sit for a few minutes to set before serving. For an inviting finish, sprinkle fresh cilantro or parsley on top. Serve warm and dive into this delicious meal!

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