Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe

Looking for an ultra-satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner that checks all the comfort food boxes? Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is your answer! This classic casserole brings together savory ground beef, fluffy rice, perfectly seasoned tomatoes, and gooey cheese in every forkful. It’s the ultimate family favorite: hearty, creamy, and so easy to assemble on a busy weeknight but impressive enough for potlucks or casual get-togethers. Every bite is cozy nostalgia at its best!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of staple ingredients to create Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, but each one plays its own important role. This dish proves how simple elements, thoughtfully combined, turn into something unforgettable.

• Ground beef: The flavorful base of your casserole; choose lean for less grease or regular for richer taste.
• Cooked white rice: Absorbs all the savory juices and holds the casserole together beautifully.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth; dice finely for the best flavor distribution.
• Garlic: Brings a subtle aromatic punch; freshly minced will make the dish pop.
• Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh): Infuses tangy moisture and bright red color, balancing out the richness.
• Cream of mushroom soup: Provides creamy texture and earthy undertones—the secret to that homestyle taste.
• Cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts into golden gooey perfection; you can mix in Monterey Jack for more meltiness.
• Italian seasoning: Adds fragrant herbs that give the casserole a signature savory profile.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and bringing out the best in every other ingredient.
• Olive oil or butter: For sautéing your beef and veggies to enhance their flavor base.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Spoon off any excess fat for a lighter casserole, but leave just a bit for flavor!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Reduce the heat to medium, add the diced onion, and cook until it softens and becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant—it’ll make your whole kitchen smell amazing!

Step 3: Mix in Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this simmer for a couple of minutes so the flavors really meld, giving that Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole a well-rounded savoriness.

Step 4: Combine with Rice and Soup

Turn off the heat, then fold in the cooked rice and cream of mushroom soup. Make sure everything’s thoroughly combined and coated in that luscious creamy sauce; this is the glue that holds your casserole together.

Step 5: Layer with Cheese and Bake

Pour the mixture into a lightly greased casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar (and Monterey Jack, if desired) generously over the top. Slide it into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 25–30 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese is gloriously melted and golden.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions right before serving adds a pop of color and freshness. For a touch of heat, try a dash of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream if you love an extra creamy finish!

Side Dishes

Because Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is rich and comforting, it pairs perfectly with lighter sides. Think crisp green salads, simple steamed broccoli, or roasted carrots for balance. Even a loaf of crusty bread is great for soaking up those saucy corners.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your casserole by baking individual portions in oven-safe ramekins—so fun for dinner parties! Or, serve scoops of the casserole stuffed in roasted bell peppers for a festive touch. For easy potluck travel, bring it right in the baking dish and let everyone help themselves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is pure gold. Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually become deeper and more savory by the next day!

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly (or use a good quality freezer container) and freeze for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the casserole before sealing with a lid or foil.

Reheating

Reheating is a breeze! For single servings, microwave until piping hot, stirring halfway for even heating. For larger amounts, cover with foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. A sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating can revive the melty topping.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing in, as it takes a bit longer to soften than white rice.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can swap in cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor twist. If you’d like to avoid canned soups, homemade white sauce with sautéed mushrooms works wonderfully.

Can I prepare Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes and then proceed as usual. This makes busy evenings a breeze!

Is there a way to make this casserole lighter?

Definitely! Try lean ground beef or ground turkey, use low-fat cheese, and opt for a reduced-sodium, light soup. The result is still creamy and flavorful but a bit easier on the waistline.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Of course! Stir in thawed frozen peas, corn, spinach, or diced bell peppers before baking for pops of color, sweetness, and extra nutrition. Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is super versatile and loves a good veggie boost.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a piping-hot Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole fresh from the oven—it brings people together and satisfies every craving. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or sharing with friends, I can’t recommend this dish enough. Give it a try and see just how quickly it disappears from the table!

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