Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Aluminum foil (for covering)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
3. Add Vegetables: Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine Rice and Liquids: Stir in the rice, beef broth, water, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix well to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
5. Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and tender.
6. Add the Cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven, uncover, and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven and bake, uncovered, for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.