Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

A waft of cheesy goodness fills the air as you pull this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole from the oven, golden and bubbling. This comforting dish combines seasoned ground beef, creamy soup, and melty cheddar with fluffy rice, resulting in a delightful meal that takes just under an hour to prepare and cook. It’s a foolproof recipe for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for families looking for a quick and delicious dinner option. Ideal for busy evenings or when feeding a crowd, it can easily be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy texture pairs perfectly with the savory beef and soft rice.
• It comes together in under an hour, ideal for a busy night.
• The golden, bubbly cheese topping adds an irresistible crunch.
• Easy to customize with your favorite herbs or veggies.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to make your casserole:

For the Casserole

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked white rice

For the Sauce

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• 1/2 cup milk or beef broth
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Cream of chicken can be used in place of cream of mushroom.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use brown rice for a nutty flavor.
• Swap beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Use cream of celery soup for a different taste.
• Fresh herbs can replace dried spices.

How to Make It

Let’s get started with your casserole!

1. Preheat the oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Brown the beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.

3. Add garlic

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Make the sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.

5. Assemble

In the prepared baking dish, combine cooked rice, beef mixture, half the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well to combine.

6. Top and bake

Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

7. Finish baking

Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Optional: Broil

Broil for 2 minutes for a crispy cheese topping, if desired.

9. Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, it freezes well for longer storage.
Reheat: Microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Drain excess fat from the beef to keep the casserole from being greasy.
• For added flavor, sauté some bell peppers with the onion.
• Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
• Use a mix of cheeses for a richer flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the cheesy sauce.
• Perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.