Ground Beef And Tomato Rice Bake

Name: Ground Beef And Tomato Rice Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comforts

I love making this Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake for my family during busy weeknights. It’s a complete meal in one dish, combining tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a rich tomato sauce that everyone can’t get enough of. The comforting flavors and ease of preparation make it a go-to recipe in my household. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can add in extra vegetables or spices based on your family's preferences. It's truly a satisfying meal that brings us together at the dinner table.

Created by

Vivienne Cole

Last updated on 2026-02-16T08:45:37.224Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I knew I wanted something hearty yet straightforward. Using ground beef as the protein source not only adds flavor but also blends perfectly with the rice, making it a filling dish. The best part? The tomato sauce gets absorbed by the rice, creating a flavorful harmony that I can't resist.

One tip I learned along the way is to use freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley as a topping before serving. It adds a burst of freshness that elevates the dish and complements the rich flavors beautifully. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
One-pot meal that's perfect for busy weeknights
Hearty and comforting, everyone will feel satisfied
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies and spices

The Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake plays a crucial role in achieving the dish's overall flavor and texture. For example, the ground beef not only contributes a hearty protein source but also offers depth to the bake with its rich, savory flavor. The combination of chopped onion and minced garlic helps to create a fragrant base that enhances the overall aroma and adds layers of flavor as they cook down. Without these key ingredients, the dish would lack the comforting essence that we all love.

The rice is another pivotal element, absorbing the flavors from the tomato sauce and beef broth while providing a satisfying texture that binds the dish together. It’s important to use uncooked rice and not pre-cooked or leftovers, as different rice types absorb varying amounts of moisture. If you find yourself short on rice, quinoa or a mix of grains can serve as great substitutes, adding a unique twist and even more nutrition to this one-pot wonder.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is a fantastic candidate for meal prep. You can assemble the entire mixture of ground beef, rice, and sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil to prevent any drying out. If you seek to extend its lifespan, consider freezing it. The uncooked dish can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then cook as instructed for fresh flavors.

To reheat leftovers, place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to keep the moisture in. Microwave on medium heat in one-minute intervals until heated through. If you prefer to reheat the entire dish, do so in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until warmed thoroughly and the top is crispy again.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

This Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake is wonderfully versatile, perfect for tailoring to your family's taste. You can easily amp up the nutritional value by adding in chopped vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just sauté these along with the onion and garlic to ensure they mesh well with the flavors before incorporating the rice and sauce. This not only enhances the meal's nutrition but also adds vibrant colors and textures that make it even more appealing.

For those looking for a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile considerably. Alternatively, play with the spices by introducing a southwest flair with cumin and chili powder, or keep it Mediterranean with fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Remember, the cheese is optional but adding a blend of mozzarella and cheddar can create a delightful gooey layer that adds creaminess to the bake.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful bake:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Make sure all ingredients are ready before you start cooking for an easier experience!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake:

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the uncooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheese if using, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Let the bake cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini into the mix for added nutrition and flavor. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is already a complete meal, but a crisp side salad can elevate it further by adding freshness and crunch. A simple mix of greens with a vinaigrette or a classic Caesar salad pairs beautifully with the hearty flavors of the bake. Additionally, serving it with some crusty bread or garlic bread allows for a delightful way to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.

For a more festive occasion, consider topping each serving with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, adding a pop of color and brightness. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkling of sliced green onions can add a nice creamy or crunchy contrast as well. Whatever you choose, the key is to balance the rich flavors of the bake with lighter elements.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your rice isn't fully cooked after baking, it may be due to insufficient liquid. Ensure you measure the beef broth accurately and consider adding a splash more if the mixture looks overly dry before baking. Uniformly distributing the ingredients and ensuring that the rice is submerged in the liquid can also aid in even cooking throughout.

Another common issue is the bake coming out overly watery. If you experience this, it might be due to too much liquid from canned tomatoes or adding previously cooked rice, which retains more moisture. In this case, you can bake uncovered for the last few minutes, allowing excess moisture to evaporate, or consider thickening the mixture with a cornstarch slurry before baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and rice mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Just bake it right before serving.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ How long will it last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or garlic bread makes great accompaniments!