My hubby is a meat lover, so this dish gets him good!

Beef and rice casserole is one of those heartwarming dishes that carry the essence of Midwestern comfort food. This recipe was passed down from my grandmother, who used to prepare it for family gatherings on chilly autumn Sundays. The aroma that fills the house while it's baking brings back memories of laughter around the dining table, the kind that make you feel at home instantly. This dish brings together simple, wholesome ingredients, making it a classic that you will want to share with your own family, creating new memories with each serving.

This beef and rice casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette or a side of steamed green beans for a pop of color and crunch. You can also serve it with a warm slice of homemade bread or cornbread to soak up all the delicious flavors. For a touch of sweetness, a classic Midwestern dessert like apple pie or peach cobbler would make a delightful end to this comforting meal.

Servings: 6

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 cup uncooked rice
1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it's no longer pink, then drain off any excess fat.

3. Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

4. Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish and cover tightly with aluminum foil.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

7. Remove the foil, sprinkle the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese, and return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

For a little extra flavor, you might consider adding a can of corn or black beans to the mix. If you prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper or a diced jalapeño can give it a nice kick. For a creamier version, stir in a cup of sour cream before topping with cheese. You can also swap the ground beef for ground turkey or even shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter alternative. Feel free to get creative with the vegetables based on what you have available — mushrooms, zucchini, or diced carrots would all be lovely additions.