Cattle Drive Casserole With Smoked Paprika Cheese Swirl

Looking for a hearty, flavorful casserole that will transport your tastebuds to the open range? Our Cattle Drive Casserole with Smoked Paprika Cheese Swirl is the answer! This isn’t your average casserole; it’s a beautiful blend of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, vibrant vegetables, and a stunning smoked paprika-infused cheese swirl that adds both incredible flavor and a touch of visual drama. Perfect for a family dinner, potluck, or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. We use halal ground beef for a quality, ethically sourced protein, and the smoked paprika really elevates the entire dish. Let’s gather the ingredients and get started on this culinary adventure!

What You’ll Need: The Ingredient Lineup

• 500g (1 lb) Halal Ground Beef: We recommend halal ground beef for its quality and ethical sourcing. Look for a blend that’s around 80/20 (meat to fat) for optimal flavor and moisture.
• 1 Medium Onion, Diced (≈150g / 1 cup): Yellow onions provide a foundational savory flavor. Dicing ensures even cooking and distribution throughout the casserole.
• 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Freshly minced garlic is essential for a robust aromatic base. Don’t skimp – garlic makes everything better!
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, Diced (≈150g / 1 cup): Red bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color. Feel free to substitute with orange or yellow bell peppers if preferred.
• 1 Cup (240ml) Tomato Sauce: Use a good quality tomato sauce – it forms the base of our flavorful beef mixture. Look for one with no added sugar for a healthier option.
• 1 Cup (240ml) Halal Beef Broth: Halal beef broth adds depth and richness to the casserole. Low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt level.
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (plus extra for dusting): Smoked paprika is the star of the show! It imparts a delicious smoky flavor and beautiful color. We use sweet smoked paprika, but you can experiment with hot smoked paprika for a spicier kick.
• 1 tsp Ground Cumin: Cumin adds warmth and earthiness, complementing the smoked paprika beautifully.
• ½ tsp Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper provides a subtle spice and enhances the other flavors.
• 1 Cup (200g) Uncooked Long-Grain Rice: Long-grain rice holds its shape well and provides a fluffy texture. Basmati or jasmine rice can also be used, but may result in a slightly stickier casserole.
• 1½ Cups (355ml) Water (for rice): The correct water-to-rice ratio is crucial for perfectly cooked rice.
• 200g (7oz) Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese provides a classic, melty topping. Sharp cheddar will deliver a more pronounced flavor.
• 150g (5oz) Cream Cheese, Softened: Softened cream cheese is key to creating a smooth and creamy cheese swirl. Full-fat cream cheese will give the best texture.
• 1 Small Jalapeño, Finely Chopped (optional for heat): Jalapeño adds a delightful kick of heat. Remove the seeds and membranes for a milder flavor.
• 2 tbsp (30ml) Milk: Milk helps to thin the cream cheese and create a pourable swirl.
• 1 tbsp (15ml) Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables and adds a healthy fat.
• Salt to taste: Seasoning is key! Adjust the salt to your preference.
• Fresh Cilantro Leaves, Chopped (for garnish): Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous finish.

Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions for Cattle Drive Casserole

1. Preheat and Prepare: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures even cooking. While the oven heats, lightly grease a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13-in) baking dish. Greasing prevents sticking and makes serving easier.
2. Cook the Rice: Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch, resulting in fluffier rice. Combine the rinsed rice and 1 ½ cups of water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This allows the rice to fully absorb the water and finish cooking through steam.
3. Sauté Aromatics: While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for approximately 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Brown the Beef: Add the halal ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to prevent a greasy casserole.
5. Spice and Simmer: Stir in the diced red bell pepper, smoked paprika, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors. Pour in the tomato sauce and halal beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Prepare the Smoked Paprika Cheese Swirl: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, milk, finely chopped jalapeño (if using), 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This swirl adds a delightful tang and visual appeal to the casserole.
7. Assemble the Casserole: Spread half of the cooked rice evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer half of the beef mixture over the rice. Dollop half of the smoked paprika cheese swirl in ribbons across the beef. Repeat these layers with the remaining rice, beef, and cheese swirl, finishing with the cheese swirl on top. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the entire surface of the casserole.
8. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheddar cheese is melted and lightly golden brown. For a deeper, more golden color, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to prevent burning.
9. Rest and Garnish: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and the casserole to set slightly. Garnish generously with chopped fresh cilantro and a light dusting of smoked paprika for added flavor and visual appeal.

The Role of Smoked Paprika in Flavor Development

Smoked paprika isn’t just about adding color; it’s a cornerstone of this Cattle Drive Casserole’s flavor profile. The smoking process imparts a deep, smoky sweetness that complements the richness of the beef and the tang of the cream cheese. Using both smoked paprika in the beef mixture and in the cheese swirl ensures that smoky flavor is present in every bite. The extra dusting at the end provides a final aromatic flourish.

Choosing the Right Beef for Optimal Flavor

Selecting halal ground beef with a moderate fat content (around 80/20) is crucial. The fat contributes to the overall flavor and juiciness of the casserole. Leaner beef can result in a drier dish. Halal beef ensures adherence to dietary requirements, and its quality often translates to a more flavorful result. Don’t be afraid to ask your butcher for recommendations!

Rice Selection and Cooking Techniques

Long-grain rice is preferred for this casserole because it holds its shape well and doesn’t become mushy during baking. Properly cooking the rice is essential. The initial rinse removes excess starch, preventing stickiness. The simmering and resting period allows the rice to fully absorb the water and achieve a fluffy texture. Undercooked rice will be hard, while overcooked rice will be mushy.

Spice Level Adjustment: Tailoring the Heat

The addition of jalapeño is optional, allowing you to customize the heat level to your preference. If you enjoy a spicier casserole, leave the seeds in the jalapeño. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes before chopping. You can also substitute the jalapeño with a milder chili pepper, such as a poblano, or omit it altogether.

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

This Cattle Drive Casserole is a great make-ahead dish! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can! Monterey Jack or a Mexican cheese blend would also work well in place of cheddar.

Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your beef broth is gluten-free. Double-check the label to ensure it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. If freezing after baking, let it cool completely before wrapping.

This Cattle Drive Casserole with Smoked Paprika Cheese Swirl is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a potluck. The combination of savory beef, fluffy rice, and smoky cheese is simply irresistible. Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest for later!

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• Author: Madison Clarke
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: General

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Description

This Cattle Drive Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish featuring savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a stunning smoked paprika-infused cheese swirl. It’s perfect for a family dinner or potluck and is sure to become a new favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500g (1 lb) Halal Ground Beef: 80/20 blend recommended
• 1 Medium Onion, Diced (≈150g / 1 cup)
• 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced
• 1 Red Bell Pepper, Diced (≈150g / 1 cup)
• 1 Cup (240ml) Tomato Sauce: no added sugar
• 1 Cup (240ml) Halal Beef Broth: low-sodium
• 1 tsp Smoked Paprika (plus extra for dusting)
• 1 tsp Ground Cumin
• ½ tsp Black Pepper
• 1 Cup (200g) Uncooked Long-Grain Rice
• 1½ Cups (355ml) Water (for rice)
• 200g (7oz) Shredded Cheddar Cheese
• 150g (5oz) Cream Cheese, Softened
• 1 Small Jalapeño, Finely Chopped (optional)
• 2 tbsp (30ml) Milk
• 1 tbsp (15ml) Olive Oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh Cilantro Leaves, Chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Grease: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 23 x 33 cm baking dish.
2. Cook the Rice: Rinse rice, boil with 1 ½ cups water, simmer covered for 15 minutes, then rest for 5 minutes.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Sauté onion in olive oil until translucent, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Brown the Beef: Add ground beef and cook until browned, draining excess fat.
5. Spice and Simmer: Stir in bell pepper, spices, tomato sauce, and beef broth; simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Make Cheese Swirl: Combine cream cheese, milk, jalapeño (if using), smoked paprika, and salt; whisk until smooth.
7. Assemble Casserole: Layer rice, beef mixture, and cheese swirl in the baking dish, finishing with cheese swirl on top. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
8. Bake: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and golden brown.
9. Rest and Garnish: Let rest for 10 minutes before serving; garnish with cilantro and smoked paprika.

Notes

For a make-ahead option, assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from the refrigerator.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 450 kcal
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 25 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg