Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy weeknight meal that combines savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. It’s perfect for feeding the family with simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

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)
• ½ 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 beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
3. Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Step 5: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the sauce. Mix everything well to combine evenly.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top of the casserole. Cover the dish with foil.
7. Step 7: Bake covered for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Step 8: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

• Substitute cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom for a different but equally creamy flavor.
• Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms with the onion for extra veggies.
• Use cooked brown rice instead of white rice for a nuttier taste and more fiber.
• For a spicier dish, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños with the beef.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils, chopped mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative to keep the casserole hearty and flavorful.

Is it necessary to drain the fat from the cooked beef?

Draining excess fat helps reduce greasiness and keeps the casserole from becoming too oily, ensuring a better texture and taste.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 149 reviews

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners. Ground beef is browned with onions and garlic, then mixed with creamy soup, cooked rice, and cheddar cheese before being baked until bubbly and golden. It’s an easy-to-make casserole that combines savory flavors with cheesy goodness for a satisfying meal.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Other Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• ½ 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 Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and prepare for baking.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef together with diced onion until the beef is fully browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, adding extra flavor to the beef mixture.
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. This creamy sauce will bind the casserole ingredients together.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked white rice, beef and onion mixture, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the prepared creamy sauce. Mix everything thoroughly to evenly distribute all components.
6. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture in the baking dish. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes in the preheated oven.
7. Finish Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown, ensuring a delicious crust forms.
8. Serve: Optionally garnish with chopped parsley before serving for a fresh color and added flavor.

Notes

• You can substitute cream of chicken soup if you prefer.
• For extra vegetables, consider adding diced bell peppers or peas to the beef while browning.
• Use low-fat cheese and milk to reduce fat content.
• Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
• If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the sauce mix.

Keywords: Cheesy ground beef casserole, beef and rice casserole, creamy beef casserole, baked casserole, comfort food dinner, easy family meal