Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will allow it to reach the perfect temperature while you’re preparing the casserole.
2. Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, cook the rice according to the package directions. For extra flavor, consider substituting some of the water with broth!
3. Prepare the Veggies: Dice your bell peppers and onion. Mince the garlic, and set everything aside for later.

Cook the Beef Mixture

1. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks.
2. Add the Vegetables: Once the meat is browned, stir in the diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the flavors meld together.
3. Season the Mixture: Stir in the dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. This is the point where you can adjust the seasonings to suit your taste.
4. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and tomato paste. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes, letting the flavors combine.

Assemble the Casserole

1. Combine the Rice and Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice with the beef and veggie mixture. Stir everything together so that it’s well incorporated.
2. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Make sure it’s evenly distributed to ensure even cooking.
3. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole, ensuring it’s generously covered.
4. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden, crispy top, you can switch the oven to broil for the last 2 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serve the Casserole

1. Let It Cool Slightly: After removing the casserole from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes. This will allow it to set and make serving easier.
2. Serve: Cut into squares and serve with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. You can also garnish with some extra herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.