If you’re craving a dish that wraps creamy, cheesy comforts and hearty flavors all in one, this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. Packed with savory browned ground beef, tender rice, and loads of melted cheddar, every bite feels like a warm hug. It’s simple to make, fuss-free, and perfect for cozy weeknights or feeding a hungry family. You’ll love how the cheese melts into the mix, creating a luscious texture that’s both filling and utterly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy, just simple essentials that come together beautifully to build layers of flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the creamy, cheesy, and hearty profile this casserole is known for.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star protein that brings savory richness and depth to the dish.
- 1 cup uncooked rice: Acts as the comforting, tender base, soaking up all those delicious flavors as it cooks.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds a touch of sweetness and aromatic warmth when browned with the beef.
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom soup: Brings creaminess and that classic casserole comfort without extra effort.
- 2 cups beef broth: Gives the rice moisture and an extra layer of savory taste.
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melted gooey goodness that ties everything together with cheesy bliss.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning to elevate all the flavors without overpowering.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Onion
Start by heating a skillet on medium-high and cook the ground beef until it’s browned and just about cooked through. Toss in the chopped onion to sauté alongside the beef until soft and fragrant. This combo builds the savory foundation you’ll love in every bite. Be sure to drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole from getting too oily.
Step 2: Combine Rice, Soup, Broth, and Cheese
Stir the uncooked rice right into your browned meat and onion mixture. Then add the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth, giving everything a good mix until well combined. Fold in half of your shredded cheddar cheese now, so it starts melting into the mixture, adding that rich, cheesy creaminess right from the start.
Step 3: Bake Covered
Pour the whole mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it evenly. Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap steam and help the rice cook perfectly. Bake in your preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes, letting all those wonderful flavors meld and the rice soften completely.
Step 4: Add Cheese Topping and Finish Baking
Remove the foil carefully and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Pop it back into the oven, uncovered, for another 10 minutes until the cheese melts to a golden, bubbly perfection. This final step is what makes the dish irresistible with that beautiful cheese crust.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top just before serving for a burst of color and a mild fresh contrast to the richness. A dollop of sour cream on the side can also add a tangy creaminess that complements the cheesy goodness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty enough on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad balances the meal beautifully. Roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans bring a welcome freshness and a pop of color to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions with melty cheese tops. You can also turn it into a layered bake by mixing in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor bursts throughout.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pack any leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before baking or after it has cooled down post-baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave until hot and bubbly, or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven covered with foil to avoid drying out the top. Add a few extra minutes uncovered at the end to refresh that melted cheese crust.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just remember brown rice will need a longer baking time and a little more liquid to cook properly, but it adds a nice nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
You can substitute dairy-free cream soups and cheese alternatives to make a version suitable for lactose intolerance while still keeping the creamy texture intact.
What can I add to make this casserole more veggie-packed?
Throw in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or chopped spinach during the sauté step for extra nutrition and lovely texture contrasts.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Traditional cream of mushroom soup often contains gluten, so be sure to use a gluten-free variety or homemade soup if gluten is a concern.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes! Just use a larger baking dish or split the mixture into two dishes. Adjust the baking time slightly to ensure the rice cooks through evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a celebration of comfort food at its finest. Simple ingredients come together in a way that feels effortlessly special, filling your kitchen with warmth and your plate with hearty, cheesy joy. Give it a try—you might just find it becoming a beloved staple in your dinner rotation for years to come!
Print
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hr
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Creamy, cheesy, and comforting — this ground beef and rice casserole combines tender beef, savory mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese into a satisfying one-dish meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion until the meat is fully cooked and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese into the cooked beef and onion mixture. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the beef and rice mixture into it, spreading evenly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, allowing the rice to cook through and flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
- Use brown rice instead of white rice for a nuttier flavor, but increase the baking time accordingly, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
- For added texture and flavor, consider adding diced green peppers or mushrooms to the beef and onion mixture before baking.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
