Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: A Cheesy, Comforting One-Dish Meal!

### **Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole**

#### **1. Cook the Ground Beef:**
– In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned and crumbled. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

#### **2. Sauté the Vegetables:**
– In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.

#### **3. Combine Beef, Rice, and Broth:**
– In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, sautéed onions and garlic, uncooked rice, beef broth, peas, cream of mushroom soup, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The mixture should be creamy but not too liquidy.

#### **4. Transfer to a Casserole Dish:**
– Pour the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.

#### **5. Add the Cheddar Cheese:**
– Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. This will melt into the mixture, creating a cheesy, delicious layer throughout.

#### **6. Make the Topping:**
– In a small bowl, combine the crushed buttery crackers with the melted butter. If you prefer a crispier topping, use the full ½ cup of crushed crackers. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole to form a crunchy, golden crust.

#### **7. Bake the Casserole:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.

#### **8. Serve and Enjoy:**
– Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to set and makes it easier to cut into portions. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, comforting goodness!

### **Why This Casserole is a Family Favorite**

– **Cheesy Crust:** The crispy cheddar cheese topping is the star of the show. It adds a satisfying crunch and a rich, cheesy flavor that takes this casserole to the next level.
– **Comforting Flavors:** The combination of ground beef, creamy soup, and fluffy rice creates a dish that feels like a warm hug. The herbs and spices give it just the right amount of flavor without overpowering the simplicity of the dish.
– **Fuss-Free:** With just one casserole dish to cook everything in, this recipe eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy families or when you just don’t feel like spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

### **Customization Ideas**

– **Add Extra Veggies:** If you want to load this casserole up with more veggies, feel free to add diced carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach. The peas work wonderfully, but you can switch them out for your favorites.
– **Swap the Meat:** While ground beef is a classic choice, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a healthier or vegetarian version.
– **Change the Cheese:** While cheddar is the go-to cheese for this casserole, feel free to mix things up! Try using mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites for added flavor and variety.
– **Add Spices:** If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. A pinch of smoked paprika would also add a lovely depth of flavor.

### **Healthier Twist**

To make a lighter version of this casserole:
– **Use Lean Ground Meat:** Opt for lean ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. You can also use extra-lean beef for a less fatty alternative.
– **Low-Fat Soup:** Choose a light or reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup (or even make a healthier homemade version).
– **Skip the Crackers:** For a lower-calorie version, you can skip the cracker topping or replace it with a sprinkle of crushed whole-wheat breadcrumbs.

### **Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Nights**

**Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole** is the ultimate in comfort food—it’s easy to prepare, easy to clean up, and guaranteed to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. The combination of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and rich cheddar cheese makes for a meal that’s both indulgent and filling, while the addition of peas adds a nice pop of color and nutrition.

This one-dish meal is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy weekend meal. Plus, it’s completely customizable, so you can tailor it to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a casual dinner party, this casserole will be the star of the meal. Try it tonight, and enjoy a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a favorite! 🍚🧀