why make this recipe
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the kind of weeknight comfort food everyone loves: simple ingredients, minimal hands-on time, and a crowd-pleasing cheesy finish. If you enjoy one-pan or quick-bake meals, you might also like a skillet-style version linked below for a slightly different take on the same flavors. In particular, check out this cheesy beef and rice skillet recipe for an alternative that cooks entirely on the stovetop.
introduction
A cozy casserole that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender rice, creamy soup, and plenty of cheddar, this dish is forgiving and customizable. It reheats well, freezes easily, and makes enough to feed a family or provide leftovers for lunches. Use pantry staples to get dinner on the table in about 40–50 minutes from start to finish.
how to make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
This casserole is assembled in three simple stages: cook the beef and aromatics, whisk together the creamy sauce, then combine with cooked rice and cheese before baking until bubbly. The result is a creamy, slightly tangy, and cheesy bake with comforting flavors that pair well with a bright side salad or steamed vegetables.
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 slices straight from the baking dish while hot. Complement the rich casserole with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables to add freshness and balance. Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven; garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon if you want a bright contrast.
how to store Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Cool to room temperature, then store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2–3 months. Reheat from frozen in a covered dish in a 350°F oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk or broth if the casserole seems dry.
tips to make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Use day-old or well-cooled rice to avoid a mushy texture; freshly cooked hot rice can make the casserole too soft.
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to prevent a greasy final dish.
- Swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken if preferred; both work well.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of dried thyme to the beef while cooking.
- If you like a crispier top, remove foil for the final baking stage and broil briefly, watching carefully.
variation (if any)
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Stir in frozen mixed vegetables (thawed) or a can of drained corn for added color and nutrition.
- Replace white rice with brown rice—note that you’ll need pre-cooked brown rice, and texture will be heartier.
- Mix in a cup of cooked mushrooms or sautéed bell peppers to enhance the savory profile.
Conclusion
For another quick and easy take on beef-and-rice comfort food, you can compare techniques and flavors with the original recipe at Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole | Oh Sweet Basil.
FAQ
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: Yes — pre-shredded cheese works, though freshly shredded melts a bit smoother.
Q: Is it okay to use instant rice?
A: Use cooked instant rice according to package directions, but let it cool slightly before mixing to avoid excess moisture.
Q: Can this be made ahead?
A: Yes — assemble and refrigerate (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- 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.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine cooked rice, beef mixture, half the shredded cheese, and the creamy sauce. Mix well to combine.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
