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