Name: Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
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 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

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If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that hits all the right notes, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine juicy, seasoned ground beef mingling perfectly with fluffy rice, all wrapped in a luscious, creamy sauce enriched with melted cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, easy to whip up yet impressive enough to serve family or friends any night of the week. Trust me, once you make this casserole, it’ll quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white rectangular baking dish filled with two visible layers. The bottom layer is made of shredded cheese, which is a mix of white and pale yellow colors, peeking out slightly under the top layer. The top layer consists of cooked ground meat, spread evenly across the cheese, and has a rich, brown, crumbly texture. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe is refreshingly simple, yet every ingredient plays an important role in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the savory ground beef and aromatic garlic to the creamy soup that binds everything together, these components combine to make a dish that’s both satisfying and irresistibly cheesy.

1 lb lean ground beef: The protein powerhouse that adds hearty flavor and juiciness to the casserole.
1 small onion, diced: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth when browned with the beef.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds an aromatic punch that livens up the entire dish.
2 cups cooked white rice: Provides a fluffy, tender base that soaks up all the tasty sauce.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken): The creamy binder that makes the casserole luscious and smooth.
1/2 cup milk or beef broth: Lightens the sauce and adds extra richness.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): The star ingredient that creates that irresistible cheesy crust and gooey interior.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors.
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish: A fresh, vibrant touch for presentation and a pop of color.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This step ensures your casserole won’t stick and will have a beautiful finish once baked.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion. Let the beef brown fully and the onion soften, creating a savory mixture full of flavor. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat so the casserole stays perfectly moist without being greasy.

Step 3: Add Garlic for Flavor

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds just until fragrant. This quick step unlocks the garlic’s aroma and layers another dimension of taste into your casserole base.

Step 4: Whisk Together the Creamy Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup with milk or beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. This sauce is what brings everything together with its creamy, comforting texture and subtle spice from the paprika.

Step 5: Combine and Assemble

In your prepared baking dish, mix the cooked rice, beef and onion mixture, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the creamy sauce. Stir well so every bite will be packed with cheesy, meaty goodness.

Step 6: Top with Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the casserole. Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes, allowing all those flavors to meld and the cheese to start melting.

Step 7: Finish Baking and Optional Broil

Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes or until the cheese on top bubbles and turns golden brown. For an extra crispy topping, broil for 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Optionally garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for color and a hint of freshness. Serve this hot, comforting casserole right out of the oven and watch everyone go back for seconds!

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

In a white bowl, there is a one-layer dish of cooked white rice mixed evenly with browned ground meat, topped with melted yellow cheese that spreads softly over the surface, and sprinkled with small pieces of chopped green herbs, all resting on a white marbled textured surface with part of a silver spoon visible inside the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley adds a lovely green contrast and a mild herbal note, brightening up the rich flavors. If you want to mix it up, a dollop of sour cream or a few sliced green onions can also add delightful creaminess and zing.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands beautifully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans provides a fresh, crunchy contrast to the creamy texture. A crusty bread roll is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce left on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style gathering, bake the casserole in a rustic cast-iron skillet and serve straight from it for a cozy vibe. You can also prepare individual portions in small ramekins for a charming presentation when entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.

Freezing

If you want to save this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap the casserole tightly with foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the casserole overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it up in the oven at 350°F until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. You can also use a microwave for convenience, just cover it to retain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese for this casserole?

Absolutely! While cheddar is classic and adds great flavor, feel free to try mozzarella for extra meltiness, Monterey Jack for a mild touch, or even a sharp gouda for a more complex taste.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Make sure to use gluten-free cream of mushroom or chicken soup, as some canned soups can contain gluten. Double-check labels and opt for gluten-free versions to keep this dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Chicken, turkey, or even plant-based ground alternatives work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking times as needed, especially if using leaner meats or vegetarian options, to ensure the right texture and flavor.

What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

You can swap it with cream of chicken soup or even make a homemade white sauce using butter, flour, and milk for a fresh, customizable option that’s just as creamy.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños when cooking the beef. For a smoky heat, chipotle powder also blends beautifully with the paprika and cheesy base.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is pure comfort food magic, combining simple ingredients into a dish that’s both satisfying and crowd-pleasing. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is a deliciously cheesy treasure that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!