Hearty Family Beef and Vegetable Casserole

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn), fresh or frozen
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with olive oil or cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer the mixture for 5 minutes to combine the flavors and slightly thicken the sauce.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice with the beef and vegetable sauce. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.
6. Transfer the rice and beef mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
8. Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Chef tips

• Use lean ground beef (85% or 90%) to reduce excess fat but keep the casserole juicy.
• If you want to add extra nutrition, swap half of the rice for cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
• Frozen mixed vegetables work great and save prep time; just thaw and drain any excess liquid before adding.
• For a dairy-free or vegan option, replace ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.