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One-Pan, Zero Drama

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Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef 85–90% lean; or ground turkey/chicken
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice uncooked; or 1 1/2 cups cooked rice
  • 3 bell peppers , diced mixed colors for sweetness
  • 1 medium yellow onion , diced
  • 3 cloves garlic , minced
  • 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices
  • 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 2 cups beef broth or chicken/vegetable
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce optional but recommended
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
  • 1/2–3/4 teaspoon kosher salt , to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1–1 1/2 cups shredded cheese mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or cheddar blend
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish optional

Method
 

  1. Set to 375°F (190°C). If your skillet isn't oven-safe, lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high. Add ground beef, breaking it up, and cook until browned with crispy bits, 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Add onion and peppers to the skillet. Cook until softened and slightly sweet, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat everything in flavor.
  5. Stir in tomato paste, then add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, and Worcestershire. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Stir in the uncooked rice. Make sure it's evenly distributed and submerged. Taste the liquid and adjust salt if needed—this is your flavor foundation.
  7. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, then cover tightly with a lid or foil and transfer to the oven. Bake 25–30 minutes, until rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
  8. Remove cover, fluff the casserole gently, and sprinkle cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered 5–7 minutes until melted and bubbly. For golden spots, broil 1–2 minutes (watch closely!).
  9. Let it rest 5–10 minutes so it sets up. Top with chopped parsley or basil. Serve warm.