Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings everyone to the table. It combines ground beef, cheese, and rice in a simple yet delicious way. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights because it is easy to make and can feed a crowd. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ingredients you might already have in your pantry.
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 hot straight from the oven. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it with some crusty bread or rolls if you like.
How to Store Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or microwave it until warm.
Tips to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- You can use any type of cheese you prefer. Try Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for different flavors.
- Feel free to add extra vegetables, such as bell peppers or corn, to the casserole for more nutrition.
- Make sure the rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole for the best texture.
Variation
You can make this dish with different proteins. Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. For a vegetarian option, try using beans or lentils and skip the meat.
FAQs
Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole! Just prepare it as directed, then wrap it tightly before freezing. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture while cooking for some extra heat.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or even homemade white sauce if you prefer.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef Use lean beef to reduce fat.
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked white rice Ensure the rice is fully cooked.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1/2 cup milk or beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Divided into two portions.
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- 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.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine cooked rice, beef mixture, half the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well to combine.
Baking
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.