Cheesy Beef Mince and Rice Bake
This hearty Cheesy Beef Mince and Rice Bake is inspired by classic midwestern casseroles and the savory flavors found in Mediterranean spice combinations. The dish brings together savory ground beef, seasoned rice, and a golden crown of bubbly, melted cheese in one warm, oven-baked comfort food. Perfect for a family dinner or crowd-pleasing potluck contribution, it’s deeply satisfying and easily adaptable to suit taste preferences or what’s in your pantry.
Equipment
Large oven-safe skillet or 9x13 inch baking dish
Large sauté pan
Cutting board and sharp knife
Wooden spoon or spatula
Mixing bowl
Aluminum foil (optional)
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil - extra virgin preferred for deeper flavor
1 pound ground beef (minced beef) - 85% lean preferred
1 cup yellow onion - finely chopped
2 cloves garlic - minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika - optional for added depth
½ teaspoon cumin - ground
1 teaspoon kosher salt - adjust to taste
½ teaspoon ground black pepper - freshly ground
2 cups white rice - cooked ; preferably day-old or cooled- 1 cup diced tomatoes - canned ; drained
1 cup cheddar cheese - shredded ; sharp cheddar for enhanced flavor
1 cup mozzarella cheese - shredded ; for melty texture
¼ cup parsley - chopped fresh ; for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring to prevent burning.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6–8 minutes until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to bloom the spices and meld the flavors.
- Turn off the heat and mix in the cooked rice and drained diced tomatoes. Fold until well combined and evenly distributed.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish or oven-safe skillet. Flatten out the surface evenly with a spatula.
- Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly on top. Cover loosely with foil if desired for a softer cheese top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes covered and then remove the foil. Continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if using, and serve hot.
Notes
- Swap the beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternative for a leaner or vegetarian version.
- Add 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- If short on time, use pre-cooked microwaveable rice pouches.
Nutrition
Calories: 406kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 25gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 739mgPotassium: 415mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 740IUVitamin C: 9mgCalcium: 271mgIron: 3mg
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