why make this recipe
This casserole is simple, filling, and tastes like home. It uses common ingredients you likely have. It cooks fast and feeds a family. If you enjoy easy comfort food, try this dish or similar dishes like Beef Hash Brown Casserole.
introduction
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a warm, cheesy dish with ground beef, rice, and a creamy sauce. It is easy to mix and bake. Kids and adults both like it. You can change the spices or add vegetables to fit your taste.
how to make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Follow the steps below and keep everything ready before you start. If you want a slow-cook version, see a similar idea like Crock-Pot Beef and Noodles.
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)
- 1/2 cup milk or beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- 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.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble: In the prepared baking dish, combine cooked rice, beef mixture, half the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well to combine.
- Top and bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Finish baking: Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
how to serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Serve hot from the oven. Add a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. Spoon into bowls or cut into squares on a plate. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra cheese works well on top.
how to store Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Cool the casserole to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. Reheat single servings in the microwave or reheat a whole dish in a 350°F oven until hot. For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Use cooked rice that is a bit firm so it does not get mushy.
- Drain fat from the beef to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Mix half the cheese into the filling and save half for the top for a melty layer.
- Add vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers for color and nutrition. You can also find ideas in another easy casserole like Beef Hash Brown Casserole.
- If you like a crisp top, broil for 1–2 minutes but watch closely.
variation (if any)
- Swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken.
- Use brown rice for more fiber (increase liquid and bake a little longer).
- Add a can of drained corn or a cup of frozen peas for extra veggies.
- Try diced tomatoes and a pinch of chili powder for a mild spicy twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes. Ground turkey works well. Cook it the same way and drain any excess moisture.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to baking time if cold.
Q: Is it okay to use leftover rice?
A: Yes. Leftover rice is good and often better because it is drier and will not make the casserole too soft.
Q: Can I add more cheese?
A: Yes. Add more cheese to your taste. It will be richer and more gooey.
Q: How do I make it gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free cream soup or make a simple white sauce with gluten-free flour.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is an easy, comforting meal you can make any night. For another take and extra tips, see the full recipe at Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole – The Cozy Cook.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- 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.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine cooked rice, beef mixture, half the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well to combine.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.
- Serve hot from the oven, optionally garnished with chopped parsley.
- Add a side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.
- Cool the casserole to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheat single servings in the microwave or reheat a whole dish in a 350°F oven until hot.
- For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.