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: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 2 cups tomato sauce; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Highlighted under: Home Ideas

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake whenever I crave a comforting meal that’s both hearty and filling. The blend of savory ground beef, tender rice, and rich tomato sauce creates a satisfying dish that my whole family enjoys. What’s even better is how easily it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Trust me, you’ll want to add this flavorful recipe to your regular rotation for a delightful family dinner.

Created by

Adriana Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-02-16T12:11:37.585Z

Each time I make this Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake, I remember the first time I tried it at a friend’s house. The warmth of the flavors and the simplicity of the ingredients captivated me. I knew right then that I had to recreate it at home. By using fresh tomatoes and aromatic herbs, I was able to elevate this dish, transforming it into a family favorite that never fails to impress.

One of my favorite tips is to let the dish rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven. This allows the flavors to meld further and makes serving easier. The result is a flavorful, cheesy top layer that contrasts beautifully with the tender rice underneath. I can’t wait for you to share the same joy with your loved ones!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty layers of seasoned ground beef and rice that warm your heart
Simple ingredients come together effortlessly in one dish
Perfect for leftovers or meal prep throughout the week

Mastering the Beef Mixture

The key to a flavorful Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake starts with the beef mixture. Searing the ground beef over medium heat ensures it develops a beautiful brown crust, which enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Don’t rush this step; allow the beef to cook until it's thoroughly browned. Another tip is to drain the excess fat, as leaving too much grease can make the dish overly rich and greasy.

As you cook the onion and garlic, watch for them to soften and become translucent, about 3-5 minutes. This step layers in essential aromatics that will infuse the entire bake with depth. Adding the tomato sauce at this stage not only lifts the flavor but also creates a cohesive mixture that binds the beef and rice together beautifully.

Perfecting the Assembly

Transferring the beef mixture to a greased baking dish is more than just a simple step—it's about ensuring an even bake. Choose a 9x13-inch baking dish for best results; this size allows the heat to circulate evenly around the mixture. Using a spatula, spread the beef mixture evenly across the bottom of the dish to facilitate consistent cooking and texture.

Sprinkling mozzarella cheese on top is where the magic happens. To achieve the perfect melt and golden color, ensure the cheese is spread evenly and slightly to the edges. This helps create a delicious, slightly crispy cheese layer, contrasting the tender ingredients beneath. I recommend using freshly shredded mozzarella for better meltability compared to pre-packaged varieties.

Ingredients

For the Bake

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups tomato sauce
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Mix all the ingredients well before baking for a perfect blend of flavors.

Instructions

Steps to Make the Bake

Prepare the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. Add chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened. Stir in tomato sauce, cooked rice, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the beef mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top evenly.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy hot with a side salad or your favorite vegetables!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, sauté some bell peppers with the onion and garlic. This adds a great sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomato sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

After baking, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish holds up well in the fridge, making it great for meal prep. For best results when reheating, do so in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. Microwaving is an option too, but it can result in uneven heating.

If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, consider assembling it without baking. You can cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes if it’s coming directly from the fridge to the oven.

Delicious Variations

While this recipe is fantastic as it is, consider adding vegetables for additional nutrition and flavor. Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be easily mixed into the beef mixture without altering cooking times significantly. They provide color and texture, making the dish even heartier.

For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the onion and garlic. This infusion of heat pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the beef and tangy tomato sauce. You can also swap out the mozzarella cheese for cheddar for a sharper flavor profile if desired.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time and liquid slightly as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is it possible to freeze this dish?

Absolutely! Prepare the dish, cool it completely, then cover tightly and freeze. It keeps well for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for ground beef?

Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative, or you can try a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.

→ Can I add vegetables to this bake?

Definitely! Feel free to add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.