Ground Beef And Tomato Rice Bake

Name: Ground Beef And Tomato Rice Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake for my family. It's a one-dish meal that's hearty and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights. The savory combination of ground beef, tender rice, and rich tomato sauce creates a cozy atmosphere that reminds me of home. Plus, it's simple to prepare, and I often have all the ingredients on hand, making it an effortless go-to. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a family favorite!

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-16T10:18:36.851Z

When I first created this recipe, I wanted to capture the essence of comforting home-cooked meals. The flavors meld together beautifully, and the best part? It comes together in one dish! I remember the first time I served it to my friends; they couldn’t believe how delicious and filling it was.

I also discovered that using a mix of white and brown rice adds a delightful texture that elevates the dish. Cooking the rice in the same pan as the beef helps it absorb all the savory juices, making every bite a flavorful experience. I couldn't recommend it more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory ground beef paired with tangy tomatoes and fluffy rice
Nutritious and satisfying, perfect for any meal
Easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices

Perfecting the Rice

The type of rice used in this bake significantly impacts the dish's texture. I recommend using long-grain white rice for its ability to remain fluffy and separate during cooking. Avoid quick-cooking or minute rice, as they can turn mushy and affect the overall consistency of your bake. When you mix the rice with the liquids, ensure it's evenly distributed to achieve uniform cooking.

Cooking the rice alongside the ground beef and tomatoes allows it to absorb all the rich flavors, creating a delightful depth. Stirring occasionally during the first half of the bake helps prevent the rice from clumping and ensures that every grain is coated with that savory beef broth and tomato essence.

Enhancing Flavor with Herbs and Spices

The addition of Italian seasoning provides a classic Mediterranean flavor, but feel free to customize it to your taste. You can add a pinch of crushed red pepper for some heat, or sprinkle in dried basil or oregano for a fresh twist. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can be stirred in just before serving for a pop of color and freshness that complements the heartiness of the dish.

If you want to take it a step further, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers with the onion and garlic. These ingredients not only deepen the flavor but also add nutritional content, making your bake even more satisfying and enjoyable.

Ingredients

For the Bake

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Mix well and enjoy the burst of flavors all in one dish!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to this bake for extra nutrition. Bell peppers and mushrooms work wonderfully!

Make-Ahead Tips

This Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake is incredibly freezer-friendly. You can prepare the entire dish up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to account for any chill.

If you're short on time during the week, consider cooking ground beef in advance. Cook the beef, drain it, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This allows you to skip the browning step during preparation, making your weeknight dinner even quicker and easier.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a simple side salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the bake. A light vinaigrette can help cut through the savory notes and cleanse the palate. Additionally, a slice of crusty bread would be perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness.

If you want to elevate the meal, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh grated Parmesan on each serving. The creaminess balances the robust flavors beautifully and adds a touch of elegance to this comforting dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and rice mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just bake it when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Store the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

→ What variations can I try?

You can customize this recipe by adding different spices or vegetables, such as corn or green beans. Also, try topping it with different cheeses!