Cheesy Ground Beef And Rice Casserole Recipe

There's nothing like the comforting aroma of a Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole wafting from your oven on a chilly evening. This hearty, family-friendly dish combines perfectly seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a rich, cheesy sauce into one irresistible meal.

I discovered this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something easy yet satisfying. Little did I know, it would become one of our go-to dinners, loved by kids and adults alike. It's quick, budget-friendly, and incredibly versatile—perfect for your next meal plan! Let’s dive in.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with this one-dish wonder! Here’s why this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole deserves a spot on your dinner table:

First, it’s a time-saver. With minimal prep and straightforward steps, you can have dinner ready in just about 45 minutes.

It’s also easy on your budget. Using pantry staples like rice, cheese, and ground beef, this meal won’t break the bank while still delivering maximum flavor.

Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're feeding picky kids or a hungry group of friends, this casserole is sure to satisfy.

And don’t forget how customizable it is! You can add vegetables, swap out the protein, or play around with different cheese blends to make it your own.

Ready to get cooking? Let’s break down the ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one is essential:

• Ground Beef: The star of the dish! Use lean ground beef for a rich, meaty flavor without too much grease. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Cooked Rice: This is the base that ties everything together. Leftover white or brown rice works beautifully, or you can cook fresh if needed.
• Cheddar Cheese: For that signature cheesy goodness. Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for extra creaminess.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creates a creamy, savory sauce. If you’re not a fan, cream of chicken or cream of celery soup are great alternatives.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic staples enhance the overall flavor.
• Broth: A splash of beef or chicken broth keeps the casserole moist and prevents it from drying out in the oven.
• Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning adds depth without overpowering the dish.

You’ll also need a large skillet, a mixing bowl, and a 9x13-inch baking dish for easy assembly.

How to Make This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Making this casserole is as easy as 1-2-3. Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Cook the Ground Beef
   Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add your ground beef. Break it into crumbles as it cooks, and once browned, drain any excess grease. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant.
2. Prepare the Mixture
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, broth, half of the shredded cheese, and seasonings. Stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
3. Assemble the Casserole
   Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top for that golden, bubbly crust.
4. Bake to Perfection
   Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage Options

This casserole is just as good the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: This casserole freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This casserole is incredibly versatile. Here are some ways to switch it up:

• Add Vegetables: Mix in peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrients and color.
• Swap the Protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage are delicious alternatives to ground beef.
• Try a Different Cheese: Experiment with Gruyere, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a unique twist.
• Spice It Up: Add diced green chilies, a dash of cayenne, or hot sauce for a little kick.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cream soup and check that your broth is gluten-free.

With endless possibilities, you can easily make this dish your own!

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food: warm, satisfying, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

What are you waiting for? Give this dish a try and watch it disappear from the table in no time! 🧀 🍚

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