Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole Recipe

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and translucent.
4. Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Once the rice is cooked, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.
8. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
9. Serve hot and enjoy the deliciousness of this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole!

Serving Tips:

1. Serve the Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole hot, straight from the oven, for the best flavor and texture.
2. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
3. Pair the casserole with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to round out the meal with some extra nutrients and fiber.
4. For a complete dinner experience, serve alongside some crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Storage Tips:

1. Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
3. You can also freeze leftovers for longer-term storage. Transfer the cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
4. To thaw and reheat frozen casserole, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Then, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, covering with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
5. Keep in mind that the texture of the rice may change slightly upon reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.