Preheat & Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2️⃣ Cook the Beef & Onion Mixture
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes, until soft.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Drain any excess grease, then stir in tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Let simmer for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
3️⃣ Mix & Assemble the Casserole
In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese.
Stir in the beef mixture until well combined.
Transfer everything into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
4️⃣ Add the Cheddar Crust & Bake
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for extra color and flavor! 🌿
🍽️ How to Serve This Cheesy Casserole
✔ As a Main Dish – Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables! 🥗
✔ With a Side of Garlic Bread – Because who doesn’t love extra carbs? 🥖
✔ As a Make-Ahead Meal – Perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully!
🛠️ Storage & Reheating Tips
