Ground Beef And Tomato Rice Bake

Name: Ground Beef And Tomato Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (10.5 oz) tomato soup; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups beef broth

Highlighted under: Warm & Tasty

I love making this Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake because it's the perfect one-pan meal that brings everyone to the table. A blend of savory ground beef, comforting rice, and tangy tomatoes creates a delightful symphony of flavors. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weekdays. My family loves how the cheese melts on top, creating a delicious crust. Trust me, this dish won't last long on your dinner table!

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-16T03:29:36.112Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was looking for a way to make dinner simpler without sacrificing flavor. Ground beef paired with rice and tomatoes seemed like the perfect solution. I was surprised by how the flavors meshed together, creating a comfort dish that everyone loved. One tip I found helpful is to let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking before serving; it allows the ingredients to meld beautifully.

Another time, I added some chopped bell peppers and spices to the mix, which added a nice kick. I realized that there's a lot of room for creativity based on what you have in your pantry. It's a fun way to experiment while keeping dinner easy and low-prep!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and comforting flavors that satisfy any hunger
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup - just one pan!
Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite ingredients

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to this Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake lies in its ingredients. Ground beef serves as a hearty base, providing protein and richness. When browned, it develops flavor through the Maillard reaction, which adds depth to the dish. Opt for lean ground beef to reduce grease, while still being flavorful. If you want a lighter version, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted successfully, but keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.

Diced tomatoes and tomato soup work hand in hand to create a savory, tangy sauce that envelops the rice. The tomatoes provide acid, which balances the richness of the beef and cheese. Using low-sodium versions allows for better control over salt content, particularly beneficial for those watching their sodium intake. If you're looking for extra flavor, consider adding fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky touch.

Perfecting the Baking Technique

When transitioning from the stovetop to the oven, it’s crucial to cover the dish with aluminum foil during the first baking phase. This step traps steam, ensuring the rice cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors while preventing it from drying out. Monitor the dish closely by peeking at the edges for bubbling; this indicates that the rice is absorbing the liquid and cooking properly.

After the first 30 minutes, removing the foil is essential for achieving that golden, bubbly cheese crust. Keep a close eye on the cheese during this last phase; depending on your oven, it may take less or more than 15 minutes to reach the desired bubbly texture. If the cheese isn’t browning quickly enough, broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.

Make-Ahead and Customization Tips

This bake can easily be made ahead. After assembling the dish but before baking, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This is particularly useful for meal prepping on busy days. If you prefer to freeze it, be sure to wrap it well and consume it within three months. When ready to bake from frozen, add an extra 15-30 minutes to the bake time while ensuring it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Customization is one of the best features of this recipe. Feel free to mix it up with different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Additionally, swap out the mozzarella cheese for cheddar or pepper jack for a different taste profile. Experimenting with spices, such as cayenne for heat or cumin for warmth, can make this dish even more interesting.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this delicious bake:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (10.5 oz) tomato soup
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups beef broth

Make sure to have everything measured and ready for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect bake:

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat and add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato soup, rice, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and beef broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Remove foil, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake is versatile. Pair it with a side salad to add freshness and contrast to the hearty main dish. A simple arugula and cherry tomato salad dressed with olive oil and lemon would complement it beautifully. Alternatively, serve it with crusty garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.

For a flavorful twist, consider topping the bake with sliced avocados or a dollop of sour cream before serving. This not only adds creaminess but also cuts through the richness of the cheese and beef, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your rice is still hard after baking, it likely needs more liquid. Always ensure you measure the beef broth accurately; add a bit more broth or water during baking if necessary. Also, make sure to tightly cover the dish with foil to lock in steam.

Another issue may arise if the bake seems overly greasy. Using leaner ground beef can significantly reduce this. If the dish has excess grease after cooking, blot the top with paper towels before serving to absorb the excess fat without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but brown rice may require a longer cooking time. Adjust the liquid accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish and store it in the refrigerator before baking. Just allow extra cooking time if it's cold from the fridge.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would complement the bake nicely.