Beef and Vegetable Rice Bake

1Preparation 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

2Cook Rice 1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water (2 cups). Bring to a boil over high heat. 2. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water (2 cups) is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.

3Cook Beef Mixture 1. In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion (1) and minced garlic (2 cloves). Cook until the onion (1) is translucent and the garlic (2 cloves) is fragrant. 2. Add the ground beef (1 pound) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until browned and cooked through. 3. Drain any excess grease from the skillet. 4. Season the beef with salt (1 teaspoon), black pepper (½ teaspoon), paprika (½ teaspoon), dried thyme (½ teaspoon), and cayenne pepper (optional) (¼ teaspoon). Stir well to combine.

4Cook Vegetables 1. In a large pot, bring water (2 cups) to a boil. Add the green beans, (2 cups) carrots (2 cups), and potatoes (2 cups). Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

5Prepare Gravy 1. In a small saucepan, prepare the brown gravy mix (1) according to the package instructions, using beef broth (2 cups) instead of water (2 cups). Stir well until the gravy is smooth and thickened.

6Assemble and Bake 1. In a large casserole dish, combine the cooked ground beef (1 pound), cooked rice, cooked vegetables, and prepared gravy. Stir well to combine. 2. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is heated through and the flavors have melded together. 3. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!