Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, creamy, and full of flavor. This family-friendly dish combines seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and a luscious cheese sauce, all baked together until bubbling and golden. It’s a one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it a go-to choice for weeknights.
What makes this casserole so special is its balance of textures and flavors. The savory beef pairs perfectly with fluffy rice, while the melted cheese binds everything together into a creamy, indulgent bite. With its simple ingredients and customizable options, this recipe can be adapted to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, and even picky eaters. Whether served as a main dish with a side salad or enjoyed on its own, this casserole is a timeless classic that never disappoints.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole – A Comfort Food Favorite
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty, family-friendly comfort food made with seasoned beef, tender rice, vegetables, and plenty of melted cheese baked to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, or green beans)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, mixed vegetables, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 50–55 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove foil, sprinkle with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese if desired, then garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice, but increase baking time by 20 minutes and add 1/2 cup more broth.
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef – The protein base of the casserole, ground beef adds hearty flavor and richness.
Cooked rice – Long-grain white rice works best, but any cooked rice can be used as the hearty foundation.
Onion – Adds savory depth and aromatic flavor to the beef mixture.
Garlic – Provides a warm, flavorful base that enhances the meat and sauce.
Bell peppers – Add sweetness, color, and texture, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese.
Cream of mushroom soup – Creates a creamy consistency and helps bind the casserole together.
Beef broth – Infuses the dish with extra savory flavor while keeping it moist.
Cheddar cheese – The star of the casserole, melted cheddar provides a gooey, cheesy finish.
Milk – Helps thin the soup mixture into a smooth sauce.
Olive oil or butter – Used for sautéing the vegetables and beef.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning the dish and enhancing its flavors.
Paprika (optional) – Adds a subtle smoky note and depth of flavor.
Directions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
In a mixing bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and milk, whisking until smooth. Stir this mixture into the beef and vegetables. Add cooked rice and mix until everything is evenly combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbling, and the cheese is melted and golden. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 6–8 servings, perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Preparation takes around 20 minutes, and baking requires an additional 25–30 minutes, making the total cook time just under an hour.
Storage/reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or warm individual portions in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations and Customizations
This casserole is highly adaptable and can be customized to fit your tastes. For a healthier version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter base.
For extra creaminess, stir in a bit of sour cream or cream cheese before baking. Adding vegetables such as peas, corn, zucchini, or spinach not only boosts nutrition but also adds variety in texture and flavor. For a spicier twist, mix in diced green chilies or jalapeños, or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
The cheese topping is versatile—try mozzarella for extra gooeyness, Colby Jack for a mild flavor, or a blend of cheeses for complexity. You can also sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the top for a crunchy finish.
This casserole also doubles as a great make-ahead meal. Assemble it a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve. It’s the kind of dish that fits perfectly into busy schedules while delivering maximum comfort.
FAQs
Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?
No, the rice should be fully cooked before assembling the casserole.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble it up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake before serving.
What other soups can I use instead of cream of mushroom?
Cream of chicken or cream of celery soup both work well.
Can I freeze cheesy ground beef and rice casserole?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
What type of cheese works best?
Cheddar is traditional, but mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend are also delicious.
Can I make this casserole spicier?
Yes, add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or use spicy cheese for extra heat.
Do I need to cover the casserole while baking?
No, bake uncovered to allow the cheese topping to brown.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free cream soup and confirm the broth is gluten-free.
How can I add more vegetables?
Mix in peas, corn, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
What can I serve with this casserole?
It pairs well with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
Conclusion
Cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is a timeless recipe that delivers comfort and flavor in every bite. With its creamy sauce, tender rice, and gooey cheese topping, it’s the perfect all-in-one meal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family gatherings. Easy to prepare, versatile, and always satisfying, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.