One-Dish Family Dinner (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Casserole

01 - 1 pound ground beef
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
03 - 1 small onion, diced
04 - 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
11 - 2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
12 - 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)
13 - 1 cup frozen corn or peas (optional)

→ For the Topping

14 - 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
15 - 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
16 - 1 tablespoon butter, melted

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. If needed, add olive oil to prevent sticking. Stir in the onion, bell pepper (if using), and garlic. Cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened. Season with smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
03 - Stir the uncooked rice into the beef mixture. Add the beef broth, canned tomatoes (with their juice), and frozen vegetables (if using). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
04 - Transfer the beef and rice mixture to the prepared casserole dish. Cover tightly with foil to prevent drying out. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
05 - In a small bowl, mix the shredded cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the casserole.
06 - Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
02 - Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
03 - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
04 - Brown rice will need slightly longer cooking time than white rice - check package instructions.

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