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 pound ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple & Speedy

I love cooking hearty meals that remind me of family gatherings, and this Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake does just that. The combination of savory ground beef, tender rice, and rich tomato sauce creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less mess and more time to enjoy with loved ones. Whether I’m feeding the family or hosting friends, this recipe never disappoints and always leaves everyone asking for more!

Created by

Brittany Shaw

Last updated on 2026-02-16T00:49:35.778Z

When I first made this Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet delicious it turned out. Growing up, my mom would often make something similar, and it always brought the family together. I decided to experiment with my version, ensuring to use a blend of spices that really elevate the flavors.

One tip I discovered is to let the dish sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps the rice absorb any excess moisture and enhances the overall texture. Each bite turns out to be rich and satisfying, making it a family favorite every time I serve it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy
Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup required
Perfectly flavored with a balance of spices and tomato richness

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When preparing the Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake, the choice of ingredients plays a crucial role in the overall flavor and texture of the dish. I recommend using lean ground beef to minimize excess fat, which can make the dish greasy. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can also work and still provide satisfactory results. For the diced tomatoes, opting for those packed in juice (rather than drained) helps to keep the rice moist during baking, contributing to the dish's savory depth.

The type of rice you use can also influence the outcome. Long-grain rice, such as basmati, cooks well and maintains a nice firmness, while short-grain rice lends a creamier texture due to its starch content. Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch, which can lead to stickiness. Additionally, if you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a mix of spices such as paprika or chili powder to boost the flavor profile.

Technique Tips for Baking

Achieving the perfect consistency in your Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake is all about technique. When you combine the ingredients in your baking dish, ensure the rice is evenly distributed and submerged in the liquid. This helps the rice absorb all the delicious flavors while cooking. Remember, using a dish that is too large can result in uneven cooking, so choose one that snugly fits the mixture to allow for even distribution of heat.

Covering the dish with foil during the initial baking phase is key to trapping steam, which allows the rice to cook properly. In the final baking stage, removing the foil to add cheese gives a melt-in-your-mouth finish. Keep an eye on the cheese during the last 10 minutes; it should be bubbly and golden. If it starts to brown too quickly, consider placing a sheet of foil loosely over the top to protect it while the rest of the dish continues to bake.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients to create this delicious bake.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Prepare your ingredients before you start cooking to ensure everything is ready!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect bake.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the Beef

In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables and Seasoning

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Combine with Rice and Tomatoes

Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), and beef broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Bake the Dish

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. If using cheese, uncover the dish and sprinkle cheese on top during the last 10 minutes.

Let it Rest

Once baked, let the dish sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add some chopped bell peppers or use spicy diced tomatoes for a kick. You can also swap out ground beef for turkey for a lighter option.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the appealing aspects of this Ground Beef and Tomato Rice Bake is that it stores well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Once cooled, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave in intervals of one minute or place in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, usually about 20 minutes.

If you want to prepare it ahead of time, you can assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. Just remember to allow extra baking time straight from the fridge—up to 10-15 minutes—to ensure it cooks through evenly. This recipe also freezes excellently; if you want to freeze it, allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly. It can be frozen for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty bake can stand on its own, but pairing it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables can elevate the meal further. A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast. Additionally, you could serve it with crusty bread on the side, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

For those who enjoy a little kick, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil just before serving. Not only does this enhance the flavor, but it also adds a pop of color for an appealing presentation. This versatility in serving allows you to customize the dish according to your family’s tastes or any specific dietary needs.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ What can I serve with this bake?

This bake pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ Is it possible to make it vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a vegetable protein, and use vegetable broth instead.