Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, satisfying, and simple to make with pantry staples. This classic one-dish meal combines tender ground beef, fluffy rice, melty cheese, and a creamy sauce into a rich, savory bake that the whole family will love.
It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a filling dinner without a lot of fuss, as it can be prepared ahead of time and baked when needed.
What makes this casserole so appealing is its versatility. You can customize it with vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or mushrooms, or swap in brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
The gooey melted cheese layered throughout ensures every bite is flavorful and indulgent, while the beef provides a protein-packed foundation. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, meal prepping, or looking for a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this casserole checks all the boxes.
Best of all, it uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have on hand—making it budget-friendly as well. Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s comfort in a casserole dish, offering warmth, convenience, and satisfying flavor all in one.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Description
The Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, all-in-one dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Featuring seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, melty cheddar cheese, and a creamy base (often with sour cream or condensed soup), this dish is baked to golden, bubbling perfection.
It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and kid-approved, making it a staple in family kitchens. Easily customizable with vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or broccoli, it’s a crowd-pleaser that reheats well for leftovers.
Whether you're feeding a crowd or meal prepping, this casserole offers cozy, satisfying flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more.
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Add ground beef to the skillet and brown it thoroughly, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease.
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Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper. Turn off heat and mix in uncooked rice.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream until smooth.
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Pour the soup mixture into the skillet with the beef and rice. Stir until well combined.
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Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
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Remove foil and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to the oven uncovered for 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 550kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 30g47%
- Saturated Fat 10g50%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 28g57%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: Tips, Serving Tricks, and Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is one of those timeless comfort foods that’s hearty, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you're a beginner cook or a seasoned home chef, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Let’s break down how to make it not only good—but great.
Pro Tips for Success
1. Brown the Beef Thoroughly
Start with a hot skillet and brown your ground beef well. You want a deep, savory flavor, so don’t rush this step. Drain excess grease to prevent a greasy casserole.
2. Flavor Base Matters
Add diced onions and garlic while browning the beef. This step builds layers of flavor and adds some textural variety. You can even throw in a little bell pepper or celery for extra depth.
3. Season Generously
Salt and pepper are a must, but don’t stop there. A teaspoon of paprika, a dash of Worcestershire sauce, or even a pinch of cayenne can elevate the flavor. A small amount of dried thyme or oregano adds a comforting, savory undertone.
4. Use Cooked or Parboiled Rice
To avoid a mushy or uneven texture, it’s best to use cooked or parboiled rice. Day-old rice works especially well because it absorbs flavors without breaking down too much.
5. Creamy Binding Agents
Traditional recipes use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup as the binding base. You can make it from scratch or use canned versions for convenience. Sour cream or a splash of milk adds richness.
6. Choose the Right Cheese
Sharp cheddar melts well and brings a punch of flavor. For a stretchier melt, add mozzarella. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if you can—freshly grated melts smoother and tastes better.
7. Don’t Overbake
Bake just until hot and bubbly—around 25–30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Overbaking can dry it out. For a crispy top, uncover the casserole during the last 10 minutes.
8. Let It Rest
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes after baking. This helps it set, making it easier to cut and serve clean portions.
Serving Tricks
- Top It Off: Before baking, sprinkle extra cheese or crushed buttery crackers for a golden, crispy topping.
- Fresh Garnish: Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley, chives, or green onions before serving for color and freshness.
- Serve with a Side: Pair it with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light coleslaw to balance the richness.
- Make It a Meal Prep Hero: Divide into portions and refrigerate or freeze. It reheats beautifully and makes weekday lunches easy.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk to keep it moist.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate one-dish dinner that brings comfort and convenience together. It uses pantry staples, comes together quickly, and adapts to your family's tastes. By using fresh aromatics, seasoning well, and choosing the right cheese and rice combo, you can elevate a basic casserole into something special.
It’s a flexible recipe—swap the protein for ground turkey or chicken, toss in veggies like peas or broccoli, or spice it up with taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist. However you make it, this casserole promises to be a satisfying, no-fuss favorite you’ll return to again and again.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant rice or brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?
Yes! You can substitute with instant rice to save time—just reduce the cooking liquid and shorten the baking time accordingly (about 20–25 minutes).
Brown rice can be used for a healthier twist, but it takes longer to cook and may require more liquid. Precook the brown rice partially before adding it to the casserole to ensure even texture.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time or freeze it?
Absolutely. You can fully assemble the casserole (without baking), then cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 3 months.
If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Add about 10 extra minutes to the baking time if it goes into the oven cold. Always ensure it’s heated through to 165°F internally.
What are the best cheese options, and can I make it lighter?
Cheddar is a classic go-to, but Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack also work great. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and lean ground beef or ground turkey.
You can also replace some cheese with low-fat Greek yogurt or a small amount of light sour cream to retain creaminess without extra fat.
Can I add vegetables or make it vegetarian?
Definitely! Bell peppers, corn, peas, or spinach blend well with the flavors. For a vegetarian option, swap ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or black beans.
Season generously and maybe add a bit of soy sauce or Worcestershire for that umami depth often provided by meat.
