Now that we’ve got all our ingredients ready, let’s walk through the steps to create this delicious Ground Beef Rice Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat.
4. Mix in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring the beef is well-seasoned.
5. Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil.
6. Pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.

And there you have it—a simple yet fulfilling dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy.