Cheesy Ground Beef And Rice Casserole Recipe

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bubbling cheesy ground beef and rice casserole fresh out of the oven. This dish is the ultimate weeknight dinner—warm, hearty, and loaded with cheesy goodness.

I first made this recipe on a chilly evening when I needed something easy and filling for the family. It quickly became a favorite, with its creamy texture, rich flavors, and just the right amount of crunch from the baked cheese on top. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone running to the table.

Whether you’re looking for a simple meal prep option, a freezer-friendly dish, or just a way to use up pantry staples, this casserole is sure to become a staple in your home.

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

Get ready to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation! This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is a lifesaver on busy nights and guaranteed to please the whole family.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this dish in the oven in no time.

It’s also budget-friendly. Made with ground beef, rice, cheese, and a few pantry staples, this recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

The flavor is out of this world. The combination of savory beef, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked rice makes every bite irresistibly delicious.

Best of all, it’s versatile. You can customize it with different cheeses, add vegetables, or even swap out the protein to make it your own.

With all these benefits, you’ll find yourself making this casserole again and again!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole lies in its simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef – I prefer using 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and tenderness. If you use a leaner option, you might need a bit more oil to prevent dryness.
• Rice – Long-grain white rice works best because it stays fluffy and absorbs the flavors well. If using brown rice, adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Cheese – Sharp cheddar is my go-to for that rich, cheesy pull, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend also work beautifully.
• Cream of mushroom soup – This adds creaminess and a depth of flavor. You can also use cream of chicken or cream of celery as substitutes.
• Beef broth – Helps cook the rice and infuses the casserole with an extra meaty richness. If you’re out of beef broth, you can use chicken broth or even water with a bouillon cube.
• Onion & Garlic – These aromatics elevate the dish, making the flavors deeper and more complex.

You'll also need a large oven-safe skillet or a casserole dish to bring everything together perfectly!

How To Make This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Making this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is as easy as it gets. Let’s walk through the steps to get that perfect, bubbly, golden-brown finish.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 9x13-inch baking dish. This helps prevent sticking and makes for easier cleanup.

1. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to prevent the casserole from being too oily.

2. Add the Aromatics and Rice

Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they turn soft and fragrant. Then, add the uncooked rice, stirring it into the beef mixture for about a minute to coat it in the flavorful juices.

3. Mix in the Sauces and Broth

Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth, stirring well to combine. Let it come to a gentle simmer. This step ensures the rice starts absorbing all that delicious flavor.

4. Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture to your greased casserole dish and top it with shredded cheese. Cover with foil and bake for about 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10 minutes to allow the cheese to get golden and bubbly.

5. Let It Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to scoop out perfect portions.

In just under an hour, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying meal ready to enjoy!

Storage Options

This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole stores beautifully, making it great for leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Let the casserole cool completely before wrapping tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes until heated through.

If reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is how customizable it is! Here are a few ways to switch things up:

• Switch the Protein – Not a fan of beef? Try ground turkey, shredded chicken, or even sausage for a different twist.
• Go Spicy – Add a dash of cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a spoonful of hot sauce to give the casserole a kick.
• Vegetable Boost – Toss in frozen peas, bell peppers, corn, or mushrooms to make it heartier and more nutritious.
• Different Cheeses – Try Pepper Jack for some spice, mozzarella for extra gooeyness, or even Parmesan for a rich depth of flavor.
• Low-Carb Version – Swap out the rice for cauliflower rice to make it keto-friendly!

Feel free to get creative with whatever ingredients you have on hand—this casserole is super forgiving!

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