Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and filling dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a family favorite. This casserole is easy to prepare and makes for a wonderful weeknight meal. Loaded with beef, rice, and creamy cheese, it satisfies even the hungriest of appetites.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a hearty dish without too much fuss. It’s budget-friendly and uses ingredients that are often on hand. Plus, you can customize it with any veggies or spices you like. It’s also great for leftovers, making it a smart choice for meal prep.
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 the foil and bake for 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
Serve the casserole hot from the oven. It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For added flavor, you can top it with some hot sauce or additional herbs.
How to Store Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place in the microwave or oven until heated 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.
- Feel free to mix in some frozen vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set up and makes serving easier.
Variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Additionally, use different kinds of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist in flavor.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but make sure it is cooked beforehand, as it takes longer to cook than white rice.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Just make sure to cover it well. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef Use ground turkey or chicken as a variation.
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked white rice Can substitute with cooked brown 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) Substitute with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor.
- 1 tsp paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper
- optional chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-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.
Assembly and Baking
- In the prepared baking dish, combine cooked rice, beef mixture, half the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well to combine.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for 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.