Here’s a simple and hearty **Ground Beef Casserole** recipe that’s packed with flavor and perfect for a comforting dinner. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients!
### Ingredients:
– **1 lb ground beef**
– **1 medium onion**, diced
– **2 cloves garlic**, minced
– **1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes**, undrained
– **1 can (6 oz) tomato paste**
– **1 cup frozen corn kernels** (or canned)
– **1 cup shredded cheddar cheese** (plus extra for topping)
– **1 cup cooked rice** (or 2 cups if using uncooked rice)
– **1/2 cup beef broth** (or water)
– **1 teaspoon dried oregano**
– **1/2 teaspoon ground cumin** (optional)
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **1/2 cup sour cream** (optional, for extra creaminess)
– **1/2 cup breadcrumbs** (optional, for topping)
### Instructions:
#### 1. **Preheat the Oven**:
– Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)** and grease or spray a 9×9-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
#### 2. **Cook the Ground Beef**:
– In a large skillet, cook the **ground beef** over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
– Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Add the **onion** and **garlic** and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
#### 3. **Add the Sauce and Seasonings**:
– Stir in the **diced tomatoes**, **tomato paste**, **beef broth**, **oregano**, **cumin** (if using), and **salt** and **pepper**. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
#### 4. **Combine the Casserole Mixture**:
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked **rice**, **corn**, **cheddar cheese**, and the beef mixture. Stir everything together until well combined. If you want a creamier texture, add **sour cream** to the mixture.
#### 5. **Transfer to Baking Dish**:
– Spoon the beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with extra **cheddar cheese** and **breadcrumbs** (if using).
#### 6. **Bake**:
– Bake in the preheated oven for **20-25 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
#### 7. **Serve**:
– Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
### Tips:
– You can add vegetables like **bell peppers**, **zucchini**, or **mushrooms** for extra flavor and nutrition.
– If you prefer a **crispy top**, increase the baking time by a few minutes or broil for the last 2-3 minutes until the breadcrumbs are golden.
– For a spicier version, add a chopped **jalapeño** or a few dashes of **hot sauce** to the beef mixture.
This **Ground Beef Casserole** is the ultimate comfort food — easy to make, flavorful, and satisfying!