Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Why Make This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

If you’re in search of a comforting, delicious, and easy-to-prepare meal, the Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is just what you need. This dish combines savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and hearty rice topped with gooey cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect family-friendly meal that not only satisfies hunger but also warms the soul. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or even cozy gatherings with friends.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Making the Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is straightforward and requires minimal prep work. This comforting dish can be assembled in just a few simple steps, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. The process melds all the flavors beautifully, resulting in a rich casserole that everyone will love.

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:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Assemble: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, half of the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well to combine.
6. Top and bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
7. Finish baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.
9. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 450
• Total Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 11g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 34g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 28g

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This casserole shines as a main dish, but you can make it a full meal by serving it with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables. For a heartier feast, consider pairing it with garlic bread or crusty rolls. It’s also excellent as leftovers, making it perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch the next day!

How to Store Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. This casserole also freezes well! Just cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• Brown the Beef: Ensure you drain the fat off the beef after browning to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.
• Rice: Use leftover rice for an even quicker prep time. It can save you from some cooking time!
• Cheese: Feel free to mix different kinds of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for added flavor.
• Toppings: Consider adding crushed crackers or breadcrumbs on top for an extra layer of crunch.

Delicious Variations

1. Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils for a delicious vegetarian twist.
2. Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or spicy chorizo for those who enjoy a little kick in their meals.
3. Veggie Boost: Mix in some frozen mixed vegetables or sautéed bell peppers for added nutrition.
4. Different Proteins: Swap the ground beef for cooked chicken or turkey for a lighter option.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
  Yes, you can prepare it the day before. Just cover and refrigerate it before baking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

• What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
  You can use any cream soup you like, such as cream of chicken or even a homemade white sauce.

• Can I use other types of cheese?
  Absolutely! You can mix and match your favorite cheeses. Just keep in mind that sharper cheeses will have a stronger flavor.

• Is this casserole gluten-free?
  To make this gluten-free, opt for gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and check that your beef broth is also gluten-free.

• How can I make this dish more nutritious?
  Adding chopped spinach or kale can boost the nutrition without altering the flavor significantly.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a fabulous dish that is easy to make and sure to please a crowd. With its cheesy top layer and delicious filling, it’s full of flavor and comforting warmth. Don’t hesitate to get creative with variations and serve it in ways that suit your family’s tastes. Give this recipe a try, and you might just find it becoming a favorite in your household! Enjoy and happy cooking!

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

A comforting casserole combining savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and hearty rice topped with gooey cheddar cheese, perfect for family meals or gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main 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
• to taste Salt and pepper
• optional chopped parsley for garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Making the sauce

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Assembling the casserole

1. In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, half of the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well to combine.

Baking

1. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
3. Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.

Serving

1. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For quicker prep, use leftover rice.