Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-dish meal combining seasoned ground beef, cooked rice, a creamy mushroom soup-based sauce, and melted sharp cheddar cheese. It’s easy to prepare using pantry staples, perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, and pleasing picky eaters with its creamy, cheesy richness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (85% or 90%)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked white rice (about 1 cup uncooked)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- ½ cup milk or beef broth
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.
- Brown the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef with diced onion until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain off any excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant to enhance flavor.
- Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, mix the cooked rice, beef and onion mixture, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden on top.
- Optional Crisping: For a crunchy cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot. Enjoy a creamy, cheesy dinner that’s great for the whole family.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef (85%-90%) to reduce grease; if using fattier beef, drain well.
- Pre-cooked rice is essential; raw rice should not be used as it affects texture and cook time.
- Leftover rice works well and helps keep the casserole from becoming mushy.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Cream of chicken soup can be used instead of cream of mushroom soup for variation.
- Milk adds richness, while beef broth adds extra depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and richer taste.
- This casserole can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until heated through or microwave individual portions.
Keywords: ground beef casserole, cheesy casserole, rice bake, comfort food, easy weeknight dinner, pantry staple recipes, meal prep casserole
