Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of celery soup (or your choice of cream soup)
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Carrot or celery chunks for added vegetables
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease if desired.
- Prepare Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cream of celery soup, rice, and water. Mix well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Optional Vegetables: If you choose to include vegetables, fold in chunks of carrots or celery into the mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the Oven: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes. Check for doneness by ensuring that the rice is fully cooked. You can stir the casserole halfway through to prevent the top layer of rice from overcooking.
- Optional Cheese Topping: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole during the last 10 minutes of baking or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Once done, remove the casserole from the oven. Allow it to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish and Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Serve with Bread: Serve the cheesy ground beef and rice casserole with buttered toast or garlic bread for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Enjoy your flavorful and comforting cheesy ground beef and rice casserole!
