If you have a craving for a warm, hearty meal that feels like a big comforting hug, then this Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. It perfectly combines tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a luscious cheesy sauce baked to bubbly perfection. Every bite is packed with rich, savory flavors and a delightful creamy texture that makes it an instant family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding a crowd, this casserole offers the perfect balance of ease, taste, and satisfying comfort in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create layers of amazing flavor, texture, and color. Each component is thoughtfully chosen so that the dish remains both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious.
- 1 pound ground beef: The main protein base that adds hearty richness and satisfying flavor.
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice: Gives you tender, fluffy grains that soak up all the delicious juices.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a subtle depth of flavor, making every bite more complex.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that wakes up the savory notes.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and an earthy undertone to the sauce.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of cheddar cheese soup: Makes the casserole irresistibly cheesy and gooey.
- 1 ¾ cups beef broth: Infuses the rice with rich flavor while keeping it moist and tender.
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots: For a pop of color, texture, and subtle sweetness.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Melted gooey cheese is the crowning glory, adding flavor and a luscious finish.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A little dash intensifies the savory depth with its tangy umami notes.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a hint of warmth and a gentle smoky touch.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Introduces just enough subtle heat to balance the richness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the aromatics and beef, bringing everything together.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics and Ground Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant, setting the perfect flavor base. Next, add the ground beef and cook until nicely browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step is crucial for building the rich, meaty character of the casserole.
Step 2: Season the Beef
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess grease if needed to keep the casserole balanced. Then stir in Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings enhance and deepen the savory notes, making this dish truly comforting and flavorful.
Step 3: Combine the Base Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the uncooked rice with the cream of mushroom soup, cream of cheddar cheese soup, and beef broth. This creamy mixture is what transforms the rice as it bakes, delivering moistness and cheesy indulgence throughout the dish.
Step 4: Add the Beef and Veggies
Fold the cooked, seasoned beef mixture into the rice base, then toss in the frozen peas and carrots along with one cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This combination adds beautiful pops of color, nutrition, and extra cheesy goodness to every layer.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Transfer everything evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, then cover tightly with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 50 minutes. This slow bake allows the rice to fully absorb the flavorful liquid and become tender.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Cheese Layer
After the initial bake, remove the foil, stir gently to combine, then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden, creating that irresistible cheesy crust.
Step 7: Let It Rest
Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving; this helps everything set nicely and makes it easier to scoop out perfect, gooey servings.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions not only adds vibrant color to your casserole but also introduces a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness. For a little extra kick, a handful of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can brighten things up beautifully.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans adds a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls also make excellent accompaniments if you want to keep things cozy and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for family-style comfort, or try scooping portions into individual ramekins and topping with a fresh herb garnish for a fancier touch. Adding a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa on the side can make the dish feel personalized and exciting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer leftover casserole into airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish actually tastes even better the next day when the flavors have melded further.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze this casserole either before or after baking. Use freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It will keep well for up to 3 months—perfect for busy days when you want a no-fuss meal ready to go.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw if frozen, then warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the whole dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly again. Adding a little extra cheese on top before reheating keeps things ultra gooey and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, but keep in mind it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. You might want to pre-cook the brown rice partially before mixing or adjust the beef broth quantity accordingly.
Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?
Yes! Swap ground beef for lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter protein option. Also, adding extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach increases fiber and nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?
You sure can! Brown the beef and sauté onion and garlic first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until the rice is tender and the casserole is bubbly. It’s an easy hands-off method for busy days.
What if I don’t have cream of cheddar cheese soup?
If you can’t find cream of cheddar cheese soup, you can substitute with more cream of mushroom soup mixed with extra shredded cheddar cheese and a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
Can I add more cheese on top?
Definitely go for it! The more cheese, the merrier when it comes to comfort food. Just keep an eye on it while baking to avoid burning the cheese crust.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like sitting down to a warm casserole that feels homemade and full of soulful goodness. This Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole Recipe is that kind of dish—simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with those you love. I encourage you to give it a try, customize it with your favorite twists, and make countless cozy memories around your table.
Print
Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting one-dish meal featuring seasoned ground beef, tender rice, mixed vegetables, and a creamy cheesy sauce baked to perfection. It’s perfect for family dinners and easy to customize with your favorite veggies or protein substitutions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of cheddar cheese soup
- 1 ¾ cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Sauté Aromatics and Brown Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if necessary to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Season the Beef Mixture: Stir Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper into the cooked ground beef until evenly combined for robust flavor.
- Combine Casserole Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of cheddar cheese soup, and beef broth. Add the cooked and seasoned ground beef mixture along with frozen peas and carrots and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with oil or butter. Transfer the entire mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly for uniform cooking.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes to allow the rice to cook and flavors to meld.
- Finish Baking with Cheese Topping: Remove the foil gently, stir the mixture slightly to distribute heat and moisture, then sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese topping is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes after baking to set and cool slightly, making it easier to serve.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this casserole.
- Add chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables and flavor variety.
- For a spicier kick, stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when cooking the beef.
