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The order in which you add ingredients in the One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole is crucial for creating a harmonious dish. Begin by browning the ground beef in your skillet. This step not only adds flavor but also allows the fat from the beef to coat the pan, enhancing the taste of the subsequent ingredients. Once the beef is browned, it’s important to drain excess fat, if necessary, before adding onions and garlic. This combination provides a flavorful base as the onions soften and the garlic releases its aromatic oils.

One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this One-Pan Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole recipe! Perfect for busy families, this dish combines tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and melty cheese, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. With rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it's a satisfying choice for any dinner table. Not only is it simple to make, but it also packs nutritional benefits, making it a versatile meal for everyone. Bring warmth and joy to your family gatherings with this delightful casserole!
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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: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Gather all your ingredients and an oven-safe skillet or large casserole dish.

    Sauté Vegetables: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

      Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it is browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.

        Add Rice & Seasonings: Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, corn, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine.

          Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid and is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

            Add Cheese: Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. If desired, you can add a little more cheese for an extra cheesy finish!

              Bake: Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven (or if using a pot without an oven-safe handle, transfer to a greased casserole dish). Bake for about 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                Garnish & Serve: Carefully remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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