Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 box of Rice-A-Roni Spanish Rice
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp ground cumin (optional but adds great flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil or cooking spray (for cooking)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice:
   • Cook the Rice-A-Roni Spanish Rice according to the package directions. Set aside once done.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook, stirring often to break it apart, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess grease if necessary.
3. Add the Vegetables:
   • To the skillet with the beef, add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
   • Stir in the cumin, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Add the Rotel diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the skillet. Stir to combine everything and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
   • Add the prepared Rice-A-Roni to the skillet and mix well.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F.
   • Pour the beef and rice mixture into a greased baking dish (a 9×13-inch dish works well).
   • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole, covering it generously.
6. Bake:
   • Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Enjoy with a side of sour cream, a fresh salad, or even some tortilla chips for extra crunch.

Tips for Storing Leftovers:

• This casserole makes great leftovers. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• If you want to extend its life, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months. Just reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to eat!

Why It’s Great:

• Budget-Friendly: Ground beef, rice, and vegetables are all affordable ingredients, and a little cheese goes a long way to adding flavor without breaking the bank.
• Versatile: You can swap in different veggies based on what you have on hand (like corn, peas, or zucchini).
• Easy to Make: The recipe is simple, with minimal prep time, making it great for busy nights.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of rice? Yes, you can use any type of rice in place of Rice-A-Roni, though the flavor might change. For a healthier option, brown rice or quinoa could be great alternatives.

2. Can I make this vegetarian? Absolutely! You can replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils, tofu, or even black beans for a vegetarian version.

3. Can I add more spices? Of course! If you like a bit more heat, try adding chili powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper to spice things up.

4. How can I make this dish spicier? You can add more diced green chilies or a spoonful of hot sauce to give it some extra heat. Adjust based on your tolerance!

5. Can I use a different kind of cheese? While sharp cheddar gives this casserole a great tangy flavor, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a taco cheese blend.

6. How do I store the leftovers? Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. To reheat, microwave individual portions or bake in the oven until warmed through.

Enjoy this easy, flavorful dinner that will last for several nights, saving you both time and money!