Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping, optional)
Construction (Assembly and Cooking Instructions):
- Preheat Oven – Set to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Cook the Beef – In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Mix Ingredients – In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, cooked rice, tomato sauce, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
- Layer the Casserole – Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Add Cheese & Topping – Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. For a crispier top, mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
- Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve – Let it cool slightly before serving.
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Mexican-Inspired: Substitute tomato sauce with salsa and add taco seasoning to the beef.
- Creamier Version: Mix in ¼ cup cream cheese for extra richness.
- Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn for extra flavor and texture.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice.
- Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or a mix of cheeses for variety.
Tips:
- Use Leftover Rice – This dish is a great way to use up leftover rice.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Assemble ahead of time and refrigerate; bake when ready.
- Storage – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- Freezer-Friendly – Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.
Would you like any additional customizations to fit your taste?