If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender beef, fluffy rice, and gooey melted cheese in every bite, look no further. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the kind of crowd-pleasing dinner that disappears almost as quickly as it comes out of the oven. It’s hearty, creamy, rich with flavor, and so simple to put together, making it an instant family favorite for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday suppers alike!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole couldn’t be more approachable, yet each item is essential in building layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible golden topping. Here’s what goes into turning pantry staples into pure dinner magic:
- Ground beef: Opt for 80/20 for a juicier casserole, but leaner beef works great too.
- Onion: Diced small, onion adds a sweet, savory undertone that complements the beef.
- Garlic: Two cloves lend aromatic depth you’ll notice in every forkful.
- Salt: Just enough to heighten every flavor, but you can adjust to taste.
- Black pepper: A half teaspoon gives mild warmth and balances the richness.
- Paprika: Adds gentle smokiness and beautiful color.
- Dried thyme: With its earthy, herbal note, thyme ties the flavors all together.
- White rice (uncooked): Regular long grain works best and cooks up tender in the oven.
- Beef broth: Infuses the rice with savory flavor as it bakes.
- Cream of mushroom soup: Delivers an ultra-creamy texture and subtle umami lift.
- Sour cream: Contributes luscious tanginess, making the casserole extra rich.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Divided, so you get a creamy interior and a melty, golden topping.
- Olive oil or butter (optional): Use for richer browning if your beef is very lean.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by firing up the oven to 350°F and give your 9×13-inch baking dish a light greasing. This simple step ensures your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole won’t stick and makes serving a breeze later on.
Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onions
Grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. If you’re using very lean beef, add the olive oil or butter to help with browning. Cook the ground beef and diced onion together, breaking up the meat and stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink and the onion is soft and translucent—this takes about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain off any excess grease to keep things from getting too heavy.
Step 3: Season and Sauté
Sprinkle in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Stir it all together and let it cook for just about a minute, until that irresistible aroma hits you. These seasonings make the beef deeply flavorful and set the stage for the rest of the casserole.
Step 4: Mix Together the Cheesy Casserole Base
In a large bowl, add your uncooked white rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir to combine, then fold in the seasoned beef-and-onion mixture. Make sure everything is nicely mixed—this helps each bite of your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole have a little bit of everything.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover tightly with foil—this keeps the steam in so the rice cooks perfectly. Bake for 45 minutes, resisting the urge to peek too early! After that time, carefully remove the foil, give the casserole a gentle stir, and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the rice is tender.
Step 6: Rest, Then Serve
When your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole emerges from the oven, let it rest for a quick 5 minutes. This brief pause helps everything settle and makes for cleaner, easier serving—plus you won’t burn your tongue in excitement!
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or thinly sliced green onions is all you need to add fresh color and zip to each serving. You could also experiment with sliced olives, extra paprika, or a quick pinch of red pepper flakes for just a hint of heat.
Side Dishes
Since Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is so rich and satisfying, it pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted green beans. Warm dinner rolls or garlic bread are always welcomed for scooping up every last bit of cheesy goodness!
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving this at a gathering, spoon the casserole into individual ramekins for personal-sized servings or use a ring mold for a fun, stacked presentation. For potlucks, garnish the whole tray generously and serve with a big ladle to keep things cozy and informal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any remaining Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole cool completely, then cover the dish tightly or transfer portions to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and the flavors seem to meld together even more after a day or two!
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Simply prepare as directed, allow it to cool, then wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. You can freeze either the whole casserole or individual servings for up to 3 months. For the best texture, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole and warm in a 350°F oven until hot throughout, about 20–25 minutes depending on portion size. For speed, you can also microwave it in individual servings, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If the casserole seems dry, simply sprinkle in a tablespoon or two of broth before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and may require additional broth. You’ll need to increase the baking time, possibly up to 75 minutes, and check occasionally for the desired tenderness.
Is it possible to make this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils, and swap the beef broth for vegetable broth. The casserole will still turn out creamy and satisfying!
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup are both great stand-ins, but you can also make a quick homemade version using sautéed mushrooms, milk, and a little flour if you want to skip the canned variety.
How can I add more vegetables?
Feel free to stir in up to a cup of frozen peas, chopped bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even small broccoli florets before baking. The casserole is very forgiving and adapts well to extra veggies.
Can I prepare Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole ahead of time?
You sure can! Assemble everything up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to bake, add an additional 5–10 minutes to the covered baking time since it’ll be starting cold.
Final Thoughts
If you’re longing for a tried-and-true recipe that’s loaded with comfort, make this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole part of your rotation. It’s as easy as it is delicious, gets applause from kids and adults alike, and is destined to become one of those homey dishes everyone requests again and again. Give it a go, and prepare for seconds!
Print
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole that is perfect for a family dinner. This easy-to-make dish combines seasoned ground beef, aromatic onions, and creamy rice topped with melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for browning)
For the Rice Mixture:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned. Add garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix rice, broth, soup, sour cream, and 1 cup cheese. Stir in the beef mixture.
- Bake: Pour mixture into baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil, top with remaining cheese, and bake uncovered until melted and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For added veggies, stir in a cup of frozen peas or chopped bell peppers before baking.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of casserole
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 26 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
