Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is one of those timeless favorites that seem to fit any occasion. I remember the first time I tried this dish; it was a chilly evening, and my friend whipped it up in her kitchen. The aroma of the melting cheese mixed with comforting beef and rice brought a cozy warmth that instantly felt like a hug. This recipe has become a go-to for busy weeknights, potlucks, or just when I want something hearty and satisfying. Plus, who can resist a bubbling, cheesy casserole straight from the oven?

Why You’ll Love This Dish

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is packed with benefits that make it a lovely addition to your culinary repertoire. First and foremost, it’s a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. You can prepare it in just one pan, which means less mess and clean-up. It’s also a hit with kids and picky eaters alike—delivering flavors that everyone will enjoy.

"This casserole has quickly become our family favorite! It’s easy to make, and my kids devour it every time!"

When you’re looking for a comforting dish that won’t break the bank or take all evening to prepare, this recipe makes perfect sense. It’s great for busy weekdays, leisurely weekends, or any occasion that calls for a hearty meal.

Preparing Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Getting to know how this dish comes together can help set your expectations. The process is simple and straightforward, making it approachable for cooks of all skill levels. You start by cooking the ground beef until it’s perfectly browned. Then, you mix it all together with comforting ingredients like rice, creamy soup, and cheese. Finally, it goes into the oven until bubbly and golden, creating a delightful aroma that fills your home.

What You’ll Need

To make this delicious casserole, gather the following ingredients:

1½ pounds ground beef
2 cups cooked white rice
1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to mix things up with ingredients you have on hand, like using brown rice or swapping the cheddar for mozzarella for a different flavor profile!

Cooking Method: Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Your Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for your casserole.
Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef thoroughly. Break it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
Mix the Casserole: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, white rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Assemble in Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until it’s hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before diving in!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This casserole is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it as a standalone dish, but if you’re looking to add some sides, consider pairing it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A dollop of sour cream or fresh parsley can elevate your plating for gatherings, making it feel a bit fancier.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

If you have leftovers (if you don’t, you might be surprised!), storing them properly is key. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days. Alternatively, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Here are a few pro tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfect:

Brown Your Beef Well: Make sure to cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned for deeper flavor.
Don’t Skip the Cheese: Using a good quality cheese can make a world of difference in creaminess and overall taste.
Let It Sit: Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to cut servings.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to consider:

Add Veggies: Stir in some peas, corn, or diced bell peppers for added nutrition.
Spice It Up: Add a dash of chili powder or your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
Different Cheeses: Try using a blend of cheeses or switch to a pepper jack for some heat.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole?
Prep time is about 10-15 minutes, and baking takes 25-30 minutes.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and store it in the fridge, then simply bake it when you’re ready.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
Cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce can be great alternatives if you have dietary restrictions or prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup.

By crafting your own Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, you’re not just making a meal; you’re creating comfort, memories, and smiles around the table. Happy cooking!

Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Author: majestyrecipes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and budget-friendly casserole packed with ground beef, rice, and melted cheese, perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale

1½ pounds ground beef
2 cups cooked white rice
1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef thoroughly, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, white rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For added nutrition, consider stirring in some peas, corn, or diced bell peppers. Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to three months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: casserole, ground beef, comfort food, easy recipes, weeknight meals