This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, one-dish meal that combines savory ground beef, fluffy rice, creamy sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
- Quick Prep: Minimal prep time, and it comes together easily.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A creamy, cheesy dish that’s satisfying for all ages.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ cups cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Optional Toppings
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, then drain any excess grease.
Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Mix well.
- Stir in the cooked rice, frozen peas and carrots (if using), and 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
Step 5: Add Optional Topping
- If desired, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle the mixture over the cheese layer. This adds a crispy topping.
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- If using the breadcrumb topping, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes to create a golden crust.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with a side of steamed green beans, a fresh garden salad, or warm dinner rolls.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and freshness.
Tips for Success
- Use Leftovers: This recipe is a great way to use leftover rice or vegetables.
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend for a twist in flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, chili powder, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Variations
- Mexican-Inspired: Use taco seasoning for the beef, add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and swap the cheddar for pepper jack cheese.
- Healthier Option: Use ground turkey instead of beef, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and brown rice for added fiber.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and double the amount of vegetables, adding mushrooms or zucchini.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the casserole as directed, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5–10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
2. Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
3. Can I substitute the canned soups?
If you prefer a homemade version, make a quick white sauce by whisking 3 tablespoons of butter with 3 tablespoons of flour in a saucepan, then slowly add 2 cups of milk or broth.
4. Can I use instant rice?
Yes, instant rice works well if you’re short on time. Cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the casserole.
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a versatile and satisfying dish that will quickly become a household staple. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for a comforting dinner that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or feeding a crowd, this casserole is sure to hit the spot.
