Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners. It combines savory ground beef, creamy mushrooms, and melted cheddar cheese for a flavorful meal the whole family will enjoy.

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)
• ½ cup milk or beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain any excess fat.
3. Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Step 5: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the sauce. Mix well to combine.
6. Step 6: Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
7. Step 7: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Step 8: Optional: broil for 2 minutes to create a crispy cheese topping.
9. Step 9: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom.
• Add some frozen mixed vegetables for extra color and nutrition.
• Use leftover cooked rice to save time when preparing the dish.
• Try substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter variation.
• Top with breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking for added crunch.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions for about 2 minutes. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend depending on your taste preference.

Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it covered for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 67 reviews

A comforting and hearty Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole made with lean ground beef, fluffy white rice, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner with a golden, bubbly cheese topping.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat and Vegetables

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• ½ cup milk or beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish

• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Brown the Beef and Onion: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion until the beef is fully browned and the onion has softened. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish lean.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the flavors meld.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a creamy sauce that will bind the casserole.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In the greased baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef and onion mixture, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the prepared sauce. Mix everything well for even distribution.
6. Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly on top of the casserole. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
7. Finish Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Optional Broil: For an extra crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
9. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot for a delicious, cheesy meal.

Notes

• You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
• Use beef broth instead of milk for a richer flavor in the sauce.
• For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheese and lean ground beef.
• Make sure to drain excess fat after cooking the beef to avoid greasy casserole.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: cheesy ground beef casserole, beef and rice casserole, easy dinner recipe, comfort food, baked casserole, cheesy rice bake