why make this recipe

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that combines hearty ingredients into a delicious, easy-to-make meal. This recipe is perfect for families or anyone looking for a filling dinner option. It’s packed with flavor, combines protein and carbs, and can be prepared in one dish, making clean-up a breeze!

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 foil and bake 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 this casserole hot right from the oven. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving some crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side.

how to store Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Make sure to heat it thoroughly when reheating.

tips to make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Use leftover rice to save time. Pre-cooked rice works great in this recipe.
Feel free to add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
Adjust the spices to your taste. You can add chili powder for a kick or Italian seasoning for a different flavor.

variation

You can make this casserole with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option. Additionally, if you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or Monterey Jack can be delicious substitutes.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

Can I use instant rice for this recipe?
Yes, instant rice can be used; just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to its instructions.

Is this casserole gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use a gluten-free cream soup and double-check your broth or any other packaged ingredients for gluten content.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

A comforting, hearty casserole that combines ground beef, rice, and cheese into a delicious meal perfect for families.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

Main ingredients

1 lb lean ground beef Use extra-lean for less fat.
1 small onion, diced For flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced Freshly minced for best flavor.
2 cups cooked white rice You can use leftover rice.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup Or cream of chicken.
1/2 cup milk or beef broth Use broth for more flavor.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Divided for mixing and topping.
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste Adjust to your preference.
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish For presentation.

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 the 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.

Making the Sauce

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

Assembling the Casserole

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

Baking

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 the 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.

Notes

You can add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Adjust spices to your taste.

Keyword Casserole, Cheesy, Comfort Food, easy dinner, ground beef