Introduction
When you’re in the mood for a warm, filling, and family-friendly dish, a Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is one of the best recipes to try. It’s simple, quick, and doesn’t need any fancy cooking skills. This casserole combines tender rice, juicy ground beef, melted cheese, and flavorful seasonings—all baked together in one dish.
One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s budget-friendly and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. It’s also a great choice for busy weeknights because you can prepare it ahead of time and pop it into the oven when you’re ready to eat. So, let’s dive in and learn how to make this delicious dish step by step!
Ingredients – Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
To make a Simple Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, you’ll need:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step by Step Process – Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Follow these easy steps to make your casserole:
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
- Cook the rice according to package instructions. You’ll need about 2 cups of cooked rice.
- Set it aside while you prepare the beef mixture.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and golden.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1 minute.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Make sure to break it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Drain any extra fat from the skillet.
Step 3: Mix the Base
- Add the can of diced tomatoes to the skillet with the beef.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream.
- Sprinkle in paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Combine with Rice
- Add the cooked rice to the beef mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Spread the beef and rice mixture evenly in the dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- If you like extra golden cheese, you can broil it for an extra 2–3 minutes at the end.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if you like.
- Serve warm with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
| Calcium | 180 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole, cover it with foil, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Q2: Can I freeze Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2–3 months in the freezer. When ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Q3: What type of rice works best for this recipe?
Any rice works well—white, brown, or even wild rice. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing it with the beef.
Q4: Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even sausage for a different flavor.
Q5: How do I make this casserole healthier?
You can use low-fat sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and brown rice. Adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or broccoli will also boost nutrition.
Final Thoughts
The Simple Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a dish that brings together comfort, flavor, and convenience. It’s the kind of recipe that makes family dinners stress-free and enjoyable. With its creamy texture, cheesy top, and hearty beef and rice base, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home.
What makes this casserole special is its versatility—you can swap out ingredients, add veggies, or even adjust the spices to match your taste. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep since it reheats so well.
So, the next time you’re craving comfort food, try this easy recipe. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a warm, cheesy, and satisfying meal ready to serve.
