Beefy Garlic Butter Bowl
This comforting casserole features creamy garlic rice, seasoned beef, and a gooey cheese pull, making it perfect for busy weeknights and potlucks.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20) Works well for flavor; leaner for less fat
- 2 cups cooked white rice Day-old or freshly cooked
- 4 tablespoons butter Plus extra to grease the dish
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Or 1½ tsp jarred if short on time
- 1 cup beef broth Low-sodium if watching salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Or half-and-half for a lighter option
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese Sharp gives better flavor
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon.
- Season the beef with salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Cook until no pink remains, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Add minced garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the cooked rice, beef broth, and heavy cream to the saucepan. Stir to combine so the rice is evenly coated.
- Let the rice mixture simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid is mostly absorbed and the rice becomes creamy.
Assembly
- Spread the creamy garlic butter rice evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Layer the cooked ground beef over the rice, spreading it to an even layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the beef, then top with mozzarella for the best melt and pull.
Baking
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- For extra color, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end — watch closely to avoid burning.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to set. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve.
Notes
Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to cut the richness. For a Tex-Mex twist, add pickled jalapeños, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream on top. If you want a protein mix, try serving the bowl alongside lighter mains like air fryer honey butter garlic chicken tenders.