Cheesy ground beef and rice casserole served in a baking dish

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and delicious meal that brings together the heartiness of ground beef, the softness of rice, and the creaminess of cheese. This dish is perfect for families and gatherings, as it’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. For another delightful casserole option, you may want to try a French onion ground beef rice casserole for a tasty twist.

Why Make This Recipe

This casserole is a wonderful choice for a quick weeknight dinner. It combines simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. The layers of flavor from the beef, rice, and cheese create a satisfying dish that is both filling and flavorful. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can add your favorite vegetables or spices for extra flavors.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

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

Directions

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 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 Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This casserole is best served warm right out of the oven. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal. The cheesy goodness makes it a hit among both kids and adults.

How to Store Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Tips to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Make sure to drain the fat from the beef to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
You can mix in some vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added nutrition.
Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor twist.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with this recipe. You can replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or a homemade cheese sauce for a different taste. Adding spices like oregano or Italian seasoning can also give it a Mediterranean flair.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use cooked brown rice. Just note that it may require a longer cooking time.

2. Is this casserole freezable?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before or after baking. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance, then cover and refrigerate. Just bake it before serving.