Cheesy Ground Beef And Rice Casserole Recipe

There's nothing quite like a warm, comforting casserole to bring the family together at dinnertime. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect combination of hearty beef, fluffy rice, and gooey melted cheese—all baked to perfection in a creamy, savory sauce.

I first discovered this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick, satisfying, and made with pantry staples. It quickly became a family favorite, appearing on our dinner table at least once a month. The best part? It’s an easy, one-pan dish that requires minimal cleanup!

Let’s dive into what makes this casserole so irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, no-fuss dinner, this cheesy casserole is it. Not only is it delicious, but it also comes with a handful of benefits that make it a go-to meal for busy families.

1. Quick and Easy to Make
This casserole requires minimal prep and just one pan. Everything cooks together in the same dish, meaning fewer dishes to clean up later. It’s perfect for nights when you don’t have the time or energy for an elaborate meal.

2. Budget-Friendly Ingredients
With affordable pantry staples like ground beef, rice, and cheese, this recipe won’t break the bank. It’s a great way to feed a hungry family without spending too much at the grocery store.

3. Family-Friendly Comfort Food
Kids and adults alike love the rich, cheesy flavor and the satisfying heartiness of this dish. It’s a guaranteed hit at the dinner table, with plenty of creamy, melty cheese in every bite.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep
Make it ahead of time and store leftovers for easy reheating throughout the week. It’s a great meal to batch cook for busy schedules.

Now, let’s talk about the key ingredients that make this casserole so flavorful.

Ingredient Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole comes from its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making this dish as delicious as possible.

Ground Beef – Lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) works best here, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

White Rice – Long-grain white rice is ideal, as it absorbs the sauce beautifully while staying fluffy. If you prefer brown rice, note that it requires a longer cooking time and extra liquid.

Cheese – A blend of cheddar and mozzarella gives this casserole its signature cheesy goodness. Sharp cheddar adds flavor, while mozzarella provides that satisfying melt.

Cream of Mushroom Soup – This adds a creamy base and enhances the overall texture. You can swap it for cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you prefer a different flavor.

Beef Broth – Using beef broth instead of water adds richness and depth to the casserole. You can also use chicken broth for a lighter taste.

Onions and Garlic – These aromatics build a savory foundation for the dish, enhancing the natural flavors of the beef and cheese.

Seasonings – A blend of salt, black pepper, paprika, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce gives the casserole a well-balanced taste.

Equipment Needed: You’ll need a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish, along with a mixing spoon and a baking dish (if you’re transferring the mixture).

How to Make This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Creating this comforting casserole is easier than you might think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, cheesy dish ready to enjoy.

1. Brown the Beef

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease and return the beef to the pan.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until fragrant and softened—about 3-4 minutes. Stir in paprika, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavor.

3. Combine the Ingredients

Pour in the uncooked rice, followed by the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth. Stir everything together until well combined. The liquid will help cook the rice as it bakes.

4. Transfer to a Baking Dish & Bake

If your skillet is oven-safe, you can keep everything in the same dish. Otherwise, transfer the mixture to a lightly greased casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

5. Add the Cheese & Finish Baking

Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Let It Rest & Serve

Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to scoop. Enjoy your cheesy, comforting casserole straight from the oven!

Storage Options

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is great for leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep! Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Freezer: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely. Transfer to a freezer-safe dish or portion into containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions: If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave smaller portions as needed.

Variations and Substitutions

This casserole is incredibly versatile—you can tweak it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to try:

1. Swap the Protein – Instead of ground beef, use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.

2. Make It Spicy – Add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

3. Add More Veggies – Stir in bell peppers, mushrooms, peas, or carrots for added texture and nutrients.

4. Use a Different Cheese – Try pepper jack, Swiss, or smoked gouda for a unique twist on the classic.

5. Make It Low-Carb – Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, keto-friendly option.

No matter how you customize it, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a warm, cheesy, comforting meal!

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