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 (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Cooking

I absolutely love making Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake on busy weeknights! This dish combines tender ground beef with flavorful tomatoes and perfectly cooked rice, creating a comforting meal that the whole family enjoys. It’s convenient and easy to prepare, which means I can spend more time with my loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Plus, you can adjust the seasonings to cater to everyone’s taste preferences. It’s a go-to recipe that has made its way into our regular dinner rotation!

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-02-16T06:25:37.014Z

When I first tried making Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake, I wasn't sure how it would turn out, but it quickly became a family favorite! The sweetness of the tomatoes perfectly balances the savory flavors of the beef, making it a harmonious dish. I also love how the rice absorbs all the flavors while baking, resulting in a comforting texture that is hard to resist.

I found that using fresh herbs instead of dried can really elevate the dish. Adding a sprinkle of fresh basil and a touch of oregano brings an aromatic touch that makes this bake even more delightful. Trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying meal that's easy to prepare
Infused with rich flavors from ground beef and tomatoes
Perfect for meal prep and feeding a hungry crowd

Getting the Right Texture

Achieving the right texture for your Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake is crucial for a satisfying dish. The rice should be tender but not mushy, absorbing the savory flavors from the beef broth and tomatoes. I recommend using long-grain white rice, which maintains its texture better than shorter grains. If you’re using brown rice, increase your baking time to about 40 minutes and add a little extra beef broth to ensure it cooks properly.

Be sure to monitor the mixture as it bakes. If the rice appears dry before the cooking time is up, you can add a splash of additional beef broth to ensure it remains moist and flavorful. Keep an eye on the edges; they should be bubbling and slightly golden when it’s ready to come out of the oven.

Flavor Boosters

While the Italian seasoning adds a good base flavor, consider customizing the spice profile to your family’s tastes. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes will introduce a pleasant warmth without overwhelming the dish. For an herbal twist, fresh basil or parsley can be stirred in right before serving. These fresh herbs can lighten the dish and add a burst of flavor that complements the rich meat and mellow rice.

If you want to incorporate other vegetables, bell peppers, or zucchini can be great additions. Simply dice them up and sauté them with the onions and garlic. They'll add a subtle sweetness and nutritional boost while ensuring your bake remains as hearty as ever.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This recipe is fantastic for batch cooking. You can easily double the ingredients to make enough for the week. After baking, let the dish cool completely, then cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in airtight containers. This meal freezes well and should be consumed within three months for the best flavor and texture.

When you're ready to reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. If you're reheating from frozen, increase the time to 45-50 minutes, covering with foil initially to prevent drying out while warm inside.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.

Combine Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, uncooked rice, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. If desired, sprinkle the top with shredded cheese.

Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, incorporate some bell peppers or your favorite vegetables into the mix. You can also substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake with a simple side salad for a balanced meal. A crisp mix of greens dressed lightly with olive oil and vinegar complements the richness of the bake. Alternatively, a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans can provide a nice texture contrast and nutritional boost.

For added flavor, consider providing toppings such as sour cream or a dollop of guacamole to dollop right before serving. These elements can elevate the comfort food experience by adding creaminess alongside the hearty texture of the dish.

Dietary Adjustments

If you're looking to make this dish lighter, swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These alternatives will provide similar texture and flavor but with less fat. Additionally, using quinoa instead of rice can enhance the dish’s nutritional profile, introducing more protein and fiber.

For a vegetarian option, try substituting the meat with a combination of cooked lentils and chopped mushrooms, which offer umami depth in place of beef. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, as lentils cook faster, but the end result will still be hearty and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to increase the cooking time and possibly the amount of liquid.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the ground beef with a mix of beans or textured vegetable protein and use vegetable broth.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make great side dishes!