- Bread Crumbs (SEO-friendly: Panko or Regular, for Crunchy Top Layer)
- Optional: Thyme (SEO-friendly: Herbs for a Savory Twist)
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### Cheese and Onion Casserole Recipe: A Flavorful Main Dish
Looking for a comforting and delicious main dish that's perfect for any occasion? Try this easy-to-make cheese and onion casserole recipe! This dish is packed with savory flavors and is sure to become a family favorite.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Precooked rice, such as instant or cooked from scratch
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that everything cooks evenly and reaches the perfect temperature.
2. **Cook the Ground Meat:**
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced onions and minced garlic (if using) and sauté until they become translucent and slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
- Crumble in the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up as you go. Cook until fully browned, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. **Prepare the Cheese Mixture:**
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, milk, thyme, and paprika.
- Mix well to ensure there are no lumps in your cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
4. **Layer the Casserole:**
- In an 8x8 inch baking dish or any other casserole dish that accommodates your ingredients:
- Begin by layering half of the cooked meat and onions.
- Add a layer of cheese mixture over the top.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of cheese mixture on top.
5. **Add Cooked Rice:**
- Sprinkle the cooked rice evenly over the cheese layer to fill any gaps or create a final layer for extra texture.
6. **Bake and Serve:**
- Place the dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden on top.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
#### Tips for Success:
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature. This helps everything cook more evenly.
- Don't skip caramelizing the onions; this step adds depth of flavor that complements the savory cheese and meat mixture.
- Adjust the amount of thyme or paprika according to personal preference for a unique taste.
Enjoy this comforting, cheesy, and flavorful main dish at your next family dinner or holiday gathering! With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it's perfect for any meal.