Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining savory ground beef with creamy sauce, rice, and melted cheddar cheese creates a hearty dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 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 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
3. Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Step 5: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, half of the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well to combine.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
7. Step 7: Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Step 8: Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.
9. Step 9: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• Use cream of chicken soup for a slightly different flavor.
• Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
• Substitute white rice with brown rice for a healthier option, but increase the cooking time slightly.
• For a spicier kick, sprinkle in some chili powder or add diced jalapeños.

Storage

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses to change the flavor and texture.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 68 reviews

A comforting and easy-to-make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole combining browned ground beef, savory cream of mushroom soup, and cheesy goodness baked to perfection. This hearty casserole is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep and features a golden, bubbly cheese topping.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients

• 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 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare it for the casserole.
2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, enhancing the overall flavor.
4. Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. Assemble: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef and onion mixture, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the sauce. Mix everything well to ensure even distribution.
6. Top and bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the casserole. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to heat through and melt the cheese under the foil.
7. Finish baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Optional broiling: For a crispier cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
9. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve the casserole hot as a satisfying meal.

Notes

• You can substitute cream of chicken soup if preferred.
• For a lighter option, use milk instead of beef broth.
• Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• This casserole can be customized with added vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Make sure to drain excess fat from the beef well to avoid a greasy casserole.
• Broiling is optional but recommended for a crispy cheese topping.

Keywords: ground beef casserole, cheesy casserole, rice casserole, easy dinner recipes, comfort food, baked casserole