🧀 Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, creamy sauce, and plenty of melted cheese into one satisfying dish. It’s an easy, family-friendly recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. Every bite is rich, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it a meal that both kids and adults will love. Best of all, this casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked when you’re ready to serve.
📝 Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup sour cream
Cheese Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
👩🍳 Full Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease before adding the salt, black pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
Add the cooked ground beef mixture and stir until everything is evenly incorporated.
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
Step 4: Bake the Casserole
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, allowing the rice to cook and absorb the flavorful liquid.
Remove the foil, sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses evenly over the top, and return the casserole to the oven.
Bake uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to firm up and makes it easier to portion.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy casserole with:
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Roasted carrots
- Garden salad with ranch dressing
- Coleslaw for a refreshing contrast
💡 Tips for the Best Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Rinse the rice before using to remove excess starch for a fluffier texture.
- Add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables and flavor.
- Use Monterey Jack or Colby cheese for a different cheesy twist.
- Prepare the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
⏱️ Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 6–8
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is creamy, hearty, and loaded with melted cheese, making it the perfect one-pan comfort meal for any occasion. It’s simple to prepare, wonderfully satisfying, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. 🧀🥩🍚