Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Hearty, creamy, and packed with cheesy goodness — this casserole is perfect for those cozy weeknight dinners. It’s easy to put together, customizable, and comforting in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal-prepping for the week, or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to hit the spot
This casserole blends ground beef, rice, creamy soup, beef broth, and loads of cheddar cheese into a satisfying one-dish meal that comes together with minimal effort. Let’s break it down step by step so you can recreate this homestyle classic in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of cheddar for extra cheesiness)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Kitchen Tools:
- Large skillet
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish using a bit of oil, butter, or non-stick spray. Set it aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil or butter. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onions begin to soften and turn translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up using a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together and remove from heat.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup (or cream of cheddar), frozen vegetables (if using), and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is essential to trap the steam and cook the rice thoroughly.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is fully tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the brand of rice used.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Once the rice is tender, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5–10 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help the flavors settle and make it easier to scoop clean portions. Serve warm, optionally garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
Why You’ll Love This Casserole:
1. One Dish Wonder
This meal combines protein, starch, vegetables, and cheese into a single dish, minimizing clean-up and maximizing convenience.
2. Customizable
Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives. You can also change the soup base, add different cheeses, or switch the veggies for what you have on hand.
3. Great for Leftovers
This casserole reheats beautifully, making it a great choice for lunch the next day. Just store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
4. Freezer-Friendly
You can also prepare it ahead and freeze before baking. When ready to eat, let it thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
Flavor Variations and Add-In
- Spicy Kick: Add diced green chilies or jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne for a spicier version.
- Extra Creamy: Stir in ¼ cup sour cream or cream cheese along with the soup for added richness.
- Tex-Mex Style: Use taco seasoning instead of paprika and stir in black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes.
- Italian-Inspired: Use Italian seasoning and swap cheddar for mozzarella or provolone.
- Crunchy Topping: Add a layer of crushed crackers or fried onions before the final bake for a crunchy twist.
Nutritional Estimate (Per Serving, Makes 6 Servings):
Calories: ~480 kcal
Protein: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~32g
Fat: ~28g
Fiber: ~2g
Sugar: ~3g
(Note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on brands and ingredient choices.)
Helpful Tips for Success
- Don’t skip the foil cover during the first bake. The rice needs steam to cook properly.
- If the casserole looks dry but the rice is still firm after 50 minutes, add a few tablespoons of water or broth and return it to the oven, covered, for an additional 10 minutes.
- Shred your own cheese for best results. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Use parboiled rice or long grain white rice for best texture. Avoid instant rice, as it may overcook or become mushy.
What to Serve With It
Although this casserole is a full meal on its own, it pairs wonderfully with:
- A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls
- Pickles or tangy slaw for contrast
Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
To Make Ahead:
Prepare the beef mixture and combine all ingredients as directed. Transfer to a baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for 20 minutes before placing in the oven.
To Store Leftovers:
Cool completely and store in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
To Reheat:
Microwave individual portions on medium heat for 2–3 minutes, or reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the kind of dish that never goes out of style. It’s reliable, hearty, and comforting — the perfect choice for when you want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, a hungry family, or prepping for the week, this recipe covers all the bases. Feel free to play around with the ingredients and make it your own. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a permanent part of your weeknight rotation.