Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Hey friend, get ready to cozy up with this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole! Picture a steaming dish of fluffy rice, savory ground beef, and gooey melted cheese, all baked together with a rich, creamy sauce that’s pure comfort in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and makes everyone at the table feel right at home. Trust me, this is the hearty, crowd-pleasing dish you’ll want to whip up on repeat—perfect for chilly nights or when you just need a big hug from your food!

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This casserole is like a warm blanket for your soul—simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or bringing a dish to a potluck, it’s got your back. Here’s why it’s a total winner:

• Versatile: Great for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even a Sunday supper. It’s a one-dish wonder that fits any occasion.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples like rice and ground beef—no fancy ingredients needed for this wallet-friendly meal.
• Quick and Easy: Simple steps that come together fast, even if you’re not a kitchen pro. It’s practically foolproof!
• Customizable: Toss in your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own. Love heat? Add some chili flakes. Kid-friendly? Keep it mild.
• Crowd-Pleasing: That cheesy, beefy goodness is a hit with kids and adults alike—nobody can resist a second helping.

Ingredients in Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

This casserole is all about everyday ingredients that transform into something magical. Here’s what makes it so darn good:

Casserole Base

• Ground Beef: The hearty star, bringing rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese and rice.
• Long-Grain White Rice: Fluffy and absorbent, it soaks up all the delicious sauce for a perfect texture.
• Onion: Adds a sweet, caramelized depth when cooked, making every bite more flavorful.
• Garlic: A little goes a long way, giving that warm, savory kick we all love.
• Cheddar Cheese: Melts into gooey, golden perfection, tying everything together with its sharp, creamy tang.
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: The secret to that rich, velvety sauce that makes this casserole irresistible.
• Beef Broth: Keeps the rice tender and infuses the dish with extra savory goodness.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables: Think peas, carrots, and corn for pops of color, texture, and sneaky nutrition.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making sure every ingredient shines.
• Black Pepper: Adds a gentle spice to balance the richness.

Topping

• Cheddar Cheese: More cheese for that bubbly, golden crust that makes you want to dive right in.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of green for freshness and a pretty finish.

Instructions

Let’s get cooking and make this comforting masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven

Crank your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the casserole bakes evenly, with a perfectly melty cheese topping.

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat for a lighter dish.

Add Aromatics

Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, frozen veggies, salt, pepper, and a handful of cheddar cheese. Mix until everything’s well combined and cozy.

Prepare Your Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour the beef and rice mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

Bake the Casserole

Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes, until the rice is tender and has soaked up all that flavor. Remove the foil, sprinkle with more cheddar, and bake uncovered for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Finishing Touches

Let it cool for 5 minutes to set—trust me, it’s worth the wait. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Serve and Enjoy

Scoop generous portions onto plates and dig in! It’s cheesy, hearty, and ready to make everyone smile.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per serving: 380

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 75 minutes

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This casserole is a meal all on its own, but a few sides can make it even better. Here’s how to serve it up right:

• Fresh Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad with ranch or vinaigrette to balance the richness with some crunch.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce.
• Steamed Veggies: A side of broccoli or green beans adds color and a healthy boost to the plate.
• Pickle Plate: Offer some tangy pickles or pickled red onions for a zesty contrast to the cheesy goodness.
• As a Standalone: Honestly, it’s so hearty, you can just dish it up with a sprinkle of parsley and call it dinner.

Presentation tip: Serve in a colorful baking dish or scoop into bowls for a cozy, inviting vibe that screams comfort food.

Additional Tips

Here’s how to make this casserole even more awesome:

• Prep Ahead: Cook the beef and onion mix the night before and store in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne, smoked paprika, or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
• Dietary Swaps: Use ground turkey for a leaner option, or swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken if that’s what you have.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats like a dream.
• Freeze It: Assemble (without baking), wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use brown rice instead of white?
A1: Yup! Brown rice works, but it needs more liquid and about 15-20 minutes extra baking time. Check for tenderness.

Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A2: Totally! Assemble it up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding 5-10 minutes if cold.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.

Q4: Can I freeze this casserole?
A4: Yes! Freeze unbaked or baked in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating or baking.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, or reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warm.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Sure thing! Use a larger dish or two 9×13 pans. Baking time stays about the same—just check for doneness.

Q7: Can I use fresh veggies instead of frozen?
A7: Absolutely! Dice and sauté them with the beef to soften before mixing in. They’ll add great texture.

Q8: What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
A8: Cream of chicken or celery works, or make a quick homemade version with milk, flour, and broth.

Q9: Can I make this vegetarian?
A9: Yup! Swap beef for plant-based crumbles or extra veggies like mushrooms and zucchini. Use veggie broth.

Q10: How do I keep the cheese from burning?
A10: Add the top layer of cheese toward the end of baking, and keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food hug—warm, cheesy, and packed with flavors that make you feel right at home. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table, from picky eaters to foodie friends, and leaves them asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this casserole delivers big on ease and deliciousness. So grab your skillet, preheat that oven, and whip up a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. You’ve got this, and it’s going to be a hit!

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