Cheesy tomato rice bake with mince

This Cheesy Tomato Rice Bake combines ground beef with onion and garlic in a savory tomato sauce, topped with melted parmesan cheese. A comforting and hearty dish, it’s perfect for family dinners.

13 Dec 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
18 oz ground beef (80/20%)
1 can canned tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
2 tbsp tomato puree
1 tsp spice mix
1 cup white rice
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Cheesy tomato rice bake with mince

Cheesy tomato rice bake with mince is a savory and comforting dish that's perfect for a hearty family dinner. Combining rich ground beef with aromatic garlic and onion, all enveloped in a tangy tomato-based sauce and finished with melted parmesan cheese, this dish is sure to please everyone around the table.

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Brown the Ground Beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain excess fat if necessary.
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
- Stir in the canned tomatoes (with their juice), 1 cup beef broth, and the tomato puree.
- Add the 1 tsp of spice mix. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Cook the Rice:
- Add 1 cup of white rice to the skillet, stirring well to ensure the rice is fully coated with the tomato mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Add Cheese:
- Once the rice is cooked, stir in half of the grated parmesan cheese (1/2 cup).
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
7. Bake:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the rice and beef mixture.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

This cheesy tomato rice bake with mince is not only delicious but also convenient and easy to prepare. The combination of savory beef, hearty rice, and cheesy goodness makes it a satisfying meal for any night of the week. Enjoy this comforting dish with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete, delightful dinner.

Cheesy tomato rice bake with mince FAQ:

What pan size should I use for the Cheesy Tomato Rice Bake?

It's best to use a large ovenproof skillet, ideally about 10-12 inches in diameter, to sauté the ingredients and then bake the dish. If you don't have an ovenproof skillet, you can transfer the mixture to a baking dish after cooking.

How do I know when the ground beef is fully cooked?

The ground beef is fully cooked when it is browned and no longer pink in the center. Using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C).

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, about 35-40 minutes, and may require additional broth.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can use other hard cheeses like Grana Padano, Pecorino Romano, or even a shredded mozzarella for a different flavor and texture.

Tips:

- To add extra flavor, consider browning the ground beef in batches to get a nice sear on the meat.

- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer, more robust tomato flavor.

- If you prefer a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy spice mix.

- Make sure to cover the baking dish with foil during the first part of baking to prevent the rice from drying out.

- For a crisp, golden cheese topping, consider switching the oven to broil for the last few minutes of baking.

- You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 660kcal
Protein 33g
Carbohydrates 54g
Fiber 3.59g
Sugar 5g
Fat 36g

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