Cozy up with this hearty and flavorful Beef Rice Casserole for Two—a perfect dinner option for couples or smaller households craving comfort food without the leftovers. Combining savory ground beef, aromatic garlic and onions, and a rich tomato sauce infused with dried herbs, this dish is layered with tender cooked white rice and topped with a melty blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Baked to bubbling perfection in just 30 minutes, it offers simple preparation with bold flavors and a satisfying finish. With a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish, this one-pan wonder is not only delicious but also easy to whip up on busy weeknights. Whether you’re searching for a quick casserole recipe, cozy dinner ideas for two, or an oven-baked favorite that doesn't skimp on flavor, this dish hits all the marks.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors.
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cooked white rice with the beef mixture until evenly coated.
Lightly grease a small oven-safe casserole dish (about 1 quart in size) and transfer the rice and beef mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for a fresh touch.
Calories |
748 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 44.9 g | 58% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.5 g | 108% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 101 mg | 34% | |
| Sodium | 1370 mg | 60% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 50.7 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g | 4% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.1 g | ||
| Protein | 33.5 g | 67% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 848 mg | 65% | |
| Iron | 2.9 mg | 16% | |
| Potassium | 138 mg | 3% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.