Delicious Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe for Dinner

Indulging in a warm plate of Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is like giving your soul a cozy hug. Picture this: creamy, cheesy goodness enveloping tender chunks of ground beef and perfectly cooked rice, all mingling in a way that makes your taste buds do a little happy dance. From the first whiff of buttery garlic sautéing to the final bubbling of cheese, this dish is a delightful symphony of flavors that can transport you straight back to your childhood kitchen—where hearty meals were the norm and laughter was always on the menu.

Whether you’re huddled around the table for a family dinner or hosting a last-minute gathering with friends, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is your secret weapon. Its comforting aroma fills the air, making mouths water and hearts warm with anticipation. Let’s cozy up and dive into this delicious recipe that proves you don’t have to be a gourmet chef to create magic in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe:

1 lb. ground beef, 85% lean – This provides a savory base for the casserole; lean cuts prevent excessive grease.
1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that adds aromatic depth and a hint of warmth.
Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential seasonings that enhance flavor; adjust based on preference.
¾ cup onions, diced – These add sweetness and depth; choose fresh onions for the best flavor.
1 Tablespoon garlic, minced – A must-have for that delightful garlicky aroma you can’t resist.
8 oz. sliced button mushrooms, washed – Their earthy taste complements the casserole beautifully; choose fresh for better texture.
3 Tablespoons butter, divided – This adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables nicely.
2 ½ cups beef broth – Provides liquid for the rice and boosts the savory flavor of the dish.
10.5 oz. cream of mushroom soup – Creates a creamy texture and enhances the mushroom flavor profile.
½ cup milk, any kind – Adds creaminess; use whole milk for a richer flavor.
½ cup sour cream – This contributes to a tangy richness that makes each bite decadent.
2 cups cheddar cheese, divided – Classic cheesy goodness that binds the dish together; opt for sharp for more flavor.
1 ¼ cups uncooked white long grain rice – The heart of the casserole; ensure it is not instant rice for the right texture.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and gets that cheesy top golden brown.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning as it cooks. Once browned, drain the excess grease, transfer the beef to a plate, and cover it with foil to keep it warm.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, letting those flavors marry beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Rice
Pour in the beef broth along with the remaining tablespoon of butter and the uncooked rice. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot tightly, and let it cook for 10 minutes. Afterward, add the sliced mushrooms, cover again, and continue cooking for another 5 to 10 minutes until the rice is tender.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Turn off the heat and leave the pot covered for another 10 minutes. Then, add the cooked ground beef back into the pot along with the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir everything until evenly combined and creamy.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish and transfer the mixture into it, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Let this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole cool for a minute before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal that warms your heart and makes your taste buds sing! Enjoy every cheesy bite, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself going back for seconds.

This showstopping Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe Cooking Process

Start by browning the ground beef with seasonings, then sauté the onions and garlic. Next, add the beef broth and rice, while the mushrooms join in later for maximum flavor absorption. This sequence ensures each component is perfectly cooked and seasoned.

Add Your Touch to Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken, or even use plant-based substitutes for a vegetarian option. Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or Gouda, and don’t hesitate to throw in your favorite veggies for a personal twist.

Storing & Reheating Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

To store, cool the casserole completely, then cover it tightly in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, microwave individual portions or bake in the oven, covered with foil, at 350°F until warmed through to preserve creaminess.

Sometimes, when I serve this casserole, I find my friends asking if it’s a secret family recipe. Little do they know, the only secret is a love for comfort food that’s too hard to keep quiet!

FAQs About Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

What is Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe?

The Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is a warm, comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and a creamy sauce enriched with cheese. It’s a one-pot wonder that not only simplifies your cooking process but also delivers a flavor punch that the entire family will love. This casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep, as it’s satisfying, hearty, and easy to make with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

How do I store leftover Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

To store your leftover Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just remember to wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap before placing it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake it at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it maintains its creamy texture.

Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! One of the best features of the Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is its prep flexibility. You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven directly from the fridge and add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This makes it an ideal option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests without rushing in the kitchen.

What variations can I make to the Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe?

There are many delightful variations you can make to the Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe to suit your tastes. Consider swapping the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian option. You can also mix in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition. Experimenting with different cheeses, such as pepper jack, Gouda, or mozzarella, can also elevate the flavor profile, allowing you to truly personalize this comforting dish.

Conclusion for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

In summary, the Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is a delicious, comforting dish that brings everyone together at the dinner table. With its rich flavors, simple ingredients, and easy preparation, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights or special gatherings. As you explore variations and adaptations to this recipe, you’ll find it becomes a family favorite in no time. Whip up this scrumptious casserole, and get ready for compliments all around!

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, one-pot meal that your family will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 420

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

Meat & Dairy

• 1 lb ground beef, 85% lean
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, divided
• ½ cup milk any kind

Vegetables

• ¾ cup onions, diced
• 1 Tablespoon garlic, minced
• 8 oz button mushrooms, sliced washed

Grains

• 1 ¼ cups uncooked white long grain rice not instant rice

Liquids

• 2 ½ cups beef broth
• 10.5 oz cream of mushroom soup

Fats & Seasonings

• 3 Tablespoons butter, divided
• 1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large Pot
• casserole dish

Method

 

Cooking Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning while cooking. Drain excess grease and transfer the beef to a plate. Cover with foil to keep warm.
3. In the same pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the beef broth along with the remaining tablespoon of butter and the uncooked rice. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Cover the pot tightly and allow the rice to cook for 10 minutes. Then add the sliced mushrooms, replace the cover, and continue cooking for another 5 to 10 minutes.
6. Turn off the heat and leave the pot covered for 10 minutes.
7. Add the cooked ground beef back into the pot along with the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir until evenly combined.
8. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish. Transfer the mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
9. Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 420kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 25gFat: 22g

Notes

For best results, let the finished dish rest before serving for optimal texture and flavor development.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!