Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that brings joy to any meal. Imagine a warm, hearty dish packed with flavors from savory beef, creamy cheese, and tender rice, all mingled together beautifully in a golden, cheesy topping. This casserole is perfect for family gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even potlucks—everyone will love it!

When you take a bite, the rich cheesy goodness melts in your mouth, and the blend of spices adds a delightful kick. The visual appeal of this dish, with its bubbling, golden cheese crust, is enough to make your mouth water. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to create this delicious casserole, including straightforward steps, cooking tips, and clever variations. Let’s dive into the cheesy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh ingredients like lean ground beef and real cheese makes this dish delicious and satisfying.
Ease of Preparation: This casserole is simple to make, perfect for cooks of all skill levels, and requires minimal cleanup.
Nutrition: Packed with protein and carbs, it’s a filling meal that can be a complete dinner on its own.
Versatility: Customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your tastes.
Presentation: Its beautiful golden layer of melted cheese makes for a stunning centerpiece at any table.

You’ll find that this dish truly appeals to everyone!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 50 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes

Note that times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb lean ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked white rice
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
1/2 cup milk or beef broth
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

How To Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Assemble: In the prepared baking dish, combine cooked rice, beef mixture, half the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well to combine.
Top and bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Finish baking: Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a homey feel.
Accompaniments: Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.
Portions: Cut into squares for easy serving and to manage portions.
Beverage Pairing: Complement with a nice glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing drink.

This casserole is sure to impress your family and friends!

Additional Tips

For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of hot sauce or chili powder to the meat mixture.
Experiment by substituting rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a twist.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess.

Recipe Variations

Vegetable Medley: Add mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn for added nutrition and color.
Spicy Tex-Mex: Incorporate diced jalapeños and substitute cheddar with pepper jack cheese for a spicy version.
Italian Twist: Use marinara sauce instead of cream of mushroom soup and add Italian herbs for a new flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Special Equipment

Large skillet
Whisk
Mixing bowls
9×13-inch baking dish
Aluminum foil
Serving spatula

FAQ’s

Can I use frozen ingredients? Yes, you can use frozen ground beef but make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking to ensure even browning.
Is this recipe healthy? Made with lean beef and fresh ingredients, it can be a balanced meal, especially when paired with vegetables.
Can I make it ahead of time? Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead and bake it just before serving.
How can I customize it? You can add your favorite vegetables or swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken.
Are there alternative cooking methods? Yes! You can prepare this in a slow cooker or instant pot; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that combines flavor, nutrition, and comfort all in one. Its gooey, cheesy top and savory filling create a mouthwatering experience that you and your loved ones will adore. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Give it a try, and let the cheesy goodness warm your heart and home!