Comfort Food • Family Favorite • Easy Dinner • Make-Ahead Friendly

This hearty casserole layers seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, creamy cheese, and savory tomato sauce into one delicious baked meal topped with golden, bubbly mozzarella.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

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Ingredients

Beef Layer

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups marinara or pasta sauce

Rice Layer

• 3 cups cooked white rice
• 2 tbsp butter
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Cheese Layer

• 1½ cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Topping

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Lightly grease a 9×13-inch (3-quart) baking dish.

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Step 2

Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

Cook the ground beef and onion for 6–8 minutes until browned.

Drain excess grease.

Add:

• Garlic
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Pepper

Cook for 1 minute.

Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.

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Step 3

Mix together:

• Cooked rice
• Butter
• Parmesan cheese

Spread evenly into the prepared baking dish.

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Step 4

In another bowl combine:

• Ricotta cheese
• Sour cream
• Egg
• Parmesan cheese
• Italian seasoning

Spread evenly over the rice layer.

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Step 5

Spoon the beef mixture evenly over the cheese layer.

Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the top.

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Step 6

Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Broil for 2–3 minutes if you prefer an extra golden top.

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Step 7

Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

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Nutrition Information

Per Serving (Approximate)

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on the ingredients and brands used.

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Tips

• Use day-old cooked rice for the best texture.
• Freshly shredded mozzarella melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
• Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
• For extra flavor, mix a little mozzarella into the ricotta layer.
• Let the casserole rest before slicing to help it hold its shape.

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Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, or microwave individual portions until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice?

Yes. Brown rice adds extra fiber and works just as well.

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?

Absolutely. Both are lean alternatives that work well in this casserole.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes. Cottage cheese is an excellent high-protein substitute for ricotta.

What vegetables can I add?

Spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, or peas all blend nicely into the beef layer.

How do I keep the casserole from becoming watery?

Drain the cooked beef well, use thick marinara sauce, and avoid overcooking watery vegetables before adding them.

What can I serve with this casserole?

Serve it with garlic bread, a Caesar salad, roasted broccoli, green beans, or steamed asparagus for a complete meal.