Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole — One-Pan Comfort in 30 Minutes!

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the ultimate one-pan solution for a busy weeknight. By cooking the rice directly in the beef broth and tomato sauce, every grain absorbs the savory, spiced flavors of the meat and aromatics. It’s a hearty, balanced meal that delivers maximum comfort with minimal cleanup, going from stovetop to table in just 30 minutes.

One-Pan Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

Directions:

Step 1: Brown and Season: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until the meat is browned.1 Drain off any excess fat. Stir in the garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, and cook for about 1 minute until the spices are fragrant.

Step 2: Simmer the Rice: Stir the uncooked rice, undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and cook for 18/20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The dish is ready when the liquid is absorbed and the rice is perfectly tender.

Step 3: The Cheesy Finish: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of the cheddar cheese until it’s melted and the casserole looks creamy. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese evenly over the top.

Step 4: Broil and Rest: For a professional finish, place the skillet under the broiler for 2/3 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving; this allows the sauce to thicken slightly and ensures the perfect texture.