Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

There’s nothing quite like a classic casserole to bring warmth and comfort to the dinner table. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole has been a family favorite for generations — the kind of meal that reminds you of cozy weeknights, laughter in the kitchen, and that familiar aroma of melted cheese wafting through the house.

What makes this recipe so special is its perfect balance of hearty and creamy textures. Every bite combines tender rice soaked in a rich, savory sauce with flavorful ground beef and plenty of gooey cheese. It’s simple to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and yet delivers big, comforting flavor every time.

This dish is also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re feeding a family, bringing a dish to a potluck, or simply looking for a dinner that will stretch your grocery budget, this casserole never disappoints. It’s one of those recipes that finds its way into your weekly rotation because it’s so easy — and because everyone always goes back for seconds!

Ingredients and Their Roles

Each ingredient in this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole contributes to its rich, comforting flavor and creamy texture. Here’s a closer look at what makes this dish so irresistible:

• 1 pound ground beef – The hearty base of the casserole, providing richness, protein, and that unmistakable savory flavor. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped – Adds aromatic depth and sweetness that balances the rich beef and cheese.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings a subtle punch of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the casserole.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked) – Serves as the comforting foundation, absorbing all the flavors from the beef and broth as it bakes.
• 2 cups beef broth – Keeps the rice moist and flavorful as it cooks in the oven, infusing it with savory goodness.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Adds creamy texture and umami richness that ties all the elements together.
• 1/2 cup sour cream – Brings a smooth, tangy flavor that enhances the creaminess without making the dish heavy.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully on top, creating that irresistible golden, cheesy crust.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and subtle smokiness, elevating the casserole’s flavor.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Simple but essential; they bring balance to every bite.

These simple ingredients come together to form a comforting, filling meal that’s perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends. The best part? You probably already have most of these in your pantry!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole come out perfectly creamy, flavorful, and irresistibly golden every single time:

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier later. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it turns brown and crumbly, about 6–8 minutes. Drain off any excess grease to keep your casserole from becoming too oily.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for another 2–3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent, and the garlic releases its aroma. This step builds the flavor base that makes the casserole taste homemade and hearty.

Step 4: Combine the Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and seasonings. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. The mixture should look creamy and slightly loose—this allows the rice to absorb liquid as it bakes.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Pour the beef and rice mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid for even cooking. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the steam.

Step 6: Bake Until Perfectly Tender

Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Remove the foil carefully, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly with golden edges. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving—it will thicken slightly as it rests.

Each step is designed to help you achieve the ideal creamy, cheesy texture without overcooking the rice or drying out the meat. It’s an easy, one-pan wonder that delivers comfort in every spoonful!

Why Everyone Loves This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about this dish. It’s the kind of comforting, creamy, cheesy dinner that reminds you of family gatherings and cozy weeknights. The combination of tender rice, savory beef, and melted cheese makes every bite satisfying and heartwarming.

One of the reasons this casserole is so popular is its simplicity. It uses everyday ingredients, comes together in one pan, and leaves you with minimal cleanup — yet it tastes like a meal that’s been simmering all day. Whether you’re cooking for family or guests, it never fails to impress.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal.
• Top with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh parsley before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
• Pair it with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• For extra richness, drizzle a little melted butter over the top just before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Don’t skip the foil: It’s key for steaming the rice evenly and keeping the casserole moist.
• Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can affect how it melts.
• Add vegetables: You can mix in peas, corn, or chopped bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
• Adjust the seasoning: A dash of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper gives the dish a deeper flavor profile.
• Let it rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes so the sauce thickens and flavors settle.

Whether you’re preparing it ahead for a busy weeknight or baking it fresh for guests, this casserole never disappoints. Its cheesy aroma fills the kitchen, drawing everyone to the table long before dinner is served.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and filled with hearty flavors that make every bite satisfying. Whether it’s a cold winter evening or a busy weekday dinner, this dish brings warmth and nostalgia straight to your table.

With its tender rice, flavorful beef, and rich melted cheese, it’s a complete meal in itself. Plus, it’s so easy to make that even beginner cooks can master it on the first try. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got a wholesome, crowd-pleasing dinner ready to go.

Leftovers? Don’t worry — this casserole reheats beautifully. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and enjoy another delicious meal without the fuss of cooking all over again.