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One-Pot Beef and Rice Casserole

One-Pot Beef and Rice Casserole
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This One-Pot Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty meal that combines lean ground beef, fluffy long-grain white rice, and savory spices all cooked together in one pot. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, it offers a balanced blend of flavors and nutrients with minimal cleanup, making it ideal for busy families seeking an easy and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella)

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat; add the ground beef and cook until browned with no pink remaining. Break it apart as it cooks to ensure even texture. Drain excess fat if necessary for a leaner dish.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the beef in the pot, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base.
  3. Combine Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in diced bell peppers, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let everything mingle for a couple of minutes to let the flavors meld.
  4. Add Rice and Broth: Pour in the uncooked rice and beef broth, stirring well to combine all ingredients. Ensure the rice is submerged in the liquid to cook evenly.
  5. Simmer and Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
  6. Optional Cheese Finish: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top, cover again, and let it melt for 3-5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent scorching and help cook the rice evenly.
  • Don’t skip browning the beef properly to add depth and richness to the flavor.
  • Reserve some extra broth to add if the rice needs more moisture during cooking.
  • Avoid lifting the lid while simmering to trap steam and cook the rice thoroughly.
  • For a gooey cheese finish, shred your favorite melting cheese like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella.

Nutrition

Keywords: one pot, beef casserole, beef and rice, easy dinner, comfort food, quick meal, weeknight dish, one pot meal, casserole, gluten free

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/one-pot-beef-and-rice-casserole/