Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender ground beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheddar cheese, it’s a satisfying dish the whole family will enjoy.

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)
• ½ cup milk or beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
3. Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Step 4: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Step 5: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, half of the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well to combine.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
7. Step 7: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Step 8: For a crispy cheese topping, broil for 2 minutes if desired.
9. Step 9: Garnish with chopped parsley if you like and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• Use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom for a slightly different flavor.
• Try mixing in some frozen peas or corn for added veggies.
• Swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder, stretchier topping.
• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while cooking.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used for a healthier option, but since it takes longer to cook, be sure to use cooked brown rice when assembling the casserole.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole a few hours ahead or the night before; just keep it covered in the fridge and bake when ready.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 121 reviews

• Author: Hugo
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish featuring seasoned ground beef, tender cooked rice, and a creamy mushroom sauce, all topped with melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners, it combines simple ingredients into a hearty casserole baked to cheesy perfection.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Beef Mixture

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• ½ cup milk or beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnish

• Chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion together until the beef is fully browned and the onion becomes soft. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, enhancing the flavor of the beef mixture.
4. Prepare Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk (or beef broth), paprika, salt, and pepper to create a creamy and flavorful sauce.
5. Assemble Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef and onion mixture, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the prepared sauce. Mix everything well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.
6. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes to heat through and meld flavors.
7. Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Optional Broil: For a crispier cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
9. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve the casserole hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

• You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
• For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat cheese and lean ground beef.
• Use beef broth instead of milk for a richer flavor or to accommodate lactose intolerance.
• The casserole can be assembled the day before and refrigerated, then baked when ready.
• Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: ground beef casserole, cheesy beef casserole, rice casserole, comfort food, easy dinner