Creamy Beef and Rice Bake (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 1 lb ground beef
02 - 1 medium onion, chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 teaspoon salt
05 - ½ teaspoon black pepper
06 - 1 teaspoon paprika
07 - 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
08 - 1 cup sour cream
09 - ½ cup milk
10 - 1½ cups cooked white rice
11 - 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
12 - ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
13 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
02 - Brown ground beef with onion and garlic in skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain excess grease.
03 - In large bowl, combine soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir in beef mixture, rice, 1 cup cheese, and peas if using.
04 - Transfer to baking dish and top with remaining 1 cup cheese.
05 - Bake 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly with golden cheese on top.
06 - Let cool a few minutes, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - Rice should be cooked before adding to casserole
02 - Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking