Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Few things compare to the cozy satisfaction of a hot, cheesy casserole on a cool evening. The Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect example of hearty, home-cooked goodness. With tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a golden layer of melted cheese, this dish not only fills your stomach but also warms your soul. Its savory aroma will bring back memories of family dinners and quickly earn a spot in your weeknight rotation.

What makes this casserole truly special is its simplicity. With only 30 minutes of prep before it bakes to perfection, it’s a reliable dish you can whip up any night of the week. Much like a comforting Chicken Alfredo Pasta Bake, it delivers rich flavors without complicated steps. Ready to bring a crowd-pleaser to your table? Let’s dive in!

What is Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

At its core, this dish is exactly what the name promises: savory ground beef, tender rice, and creamy cheese baked together into one satisfying casserole. It may sound indulgent, but it’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Perfect for busy nights, it’s the kind of meal that wins over even the pickiest eaters—proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most irresistible.

Why You’ll Love It

There are plenty of reasons this casserole deserves a place on your menu:

• Rich, comforting flavor: Juicy ground beef and melted cheese are a match made in comfort food heaven.

• Budget-friendly: With simple pantry staples and seasonal veggies, it’s as affordable as it is delicious.

• Versatile: You can swap cheeses, add spices, or sneak in extra veggies without losing its charm.

Pair it with garlic bread, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a well-rounded meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 cup uncooked white rice

• 2 cups beef broth (or water)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup

• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, etc.)

• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make It

1. Preheat: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the beef: Brown ground beef with diced onion in a skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat.

3. Mix ingredients: Combine beef, uncooked rice, broth, mushroom soup, and vegetables in a large bowl.

4. Layer: Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.

5. Add cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.

6. Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, then bake another 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.

7. Serve: Let rest a few minutes before scooping generous portions.

Serving Ideas

This casserole shines alongside a fresh salad with vinaigrette, warm garlic bread, or buttery corn. For a lighter pairing, serve with steamed green beans. Add iced tea or lemonade, and you’ve got the perfect cozy dinner.

Tips for Success

• Swap the soup: Cream of chicken or homemade béchamel can replace mushroom soup.

• Try different rice: Brown rice or cauliflower rice works—just adjust cooking times.

• Cover while baking: Don’t skip the foil step; it helps the rice cook evenly and keeps everything moist.

Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

• Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

• Reheat: Thaw overnight, then warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Final Note

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is everything you want in a family meal: hearty, budget-friendly, and full of flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles to the table.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

A warm, cheesy casserole featuring ground beef, fluffy rice, and a decadent cheese layer, perfect for family dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• 1 cup uncooked white rice White rice is recommended, but you can substitute with brown rice.
• 2 cups beef broth or water Use beef broth for enhanced flavor.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup Can substitute with cream of chicken soup or homemade white sauce.
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend) Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend.
• 1 medium onion, diced Diced onion adds flavor to the ground beef.
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, etc.) Includes a mix of your choice for added nutrition.
• to taste Salt and pepper Season according to your preference.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Season with salt and pepper, then cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. In a large bowl, combine the browned beef, uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and frozen mixed vegetables. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole, ensuring an even layer that covers the entire dish.

Baking

1. Cover the casserole with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
3. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out hearty portions and enjoy!

Notes

For storage, cool the casserole completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.