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Italian Beef and Rice Bake

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 1 jar 24 oz marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
  3. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Stir in the cooked rice, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine and heat through.
  5. Pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread out evenly.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  8. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and enjoy this comforting Italian-inspired dish!

Notes

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Add extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave or oven.