Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

1 lb (450g) ground beef
1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups beef broth
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large skillet, cook ground beef with chopped onion and garlic until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, frozen veggies (if using), sour cream, and 1 1/2 cups of cheese.
Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cover with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until rice is tender.
Remove foil, sprinkle remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 5–10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.