Dinner

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

ByHugo Harnd February 12, 2026February 12, 2026

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.

A white bowl filled with a layered dish of cooked white rice mixed with browned ground beef pieces, melted yellow cheddar cheese spread across the top, and small green parsley leaves sprinkled over the entire dish. A silver spoon is placed inside the bowl, with a soft white cloth in the blurred background on a white marbled texture surface. The rice grains are fluffy, the meat chunky, and the cheese looks creamy and slightly melted. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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.
Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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.
Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Step 7: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 8: For a crispy cheese topping, broil for 2 minutes if desired.
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

A white bowl filled with a mix of cooked white rice and browned ground meat, topped with melted bright yellow cheese scattered unevenly across the surface. Small green parsley leaves are sprinkled on top, adding color contrast. The rice looks soft and fluffy, while the ground meat has a crumbly texture. A silver spoon is placed inside the bowl on the right side. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface with a blurred gray cloth in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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.