When you’re craving something warm, satisfying, and irresistibly cheesy, a good casserole never disappoints. This Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect blend of hearty ground beef, fluffy rice, savory seasonings, and a generous layer of golden, melted cheese. It’s a family-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and ideal for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Plus, it’s one of those meals that tastes even better the next day!
Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter meal or a filling dish to feed a hungry crowd, this casserole delivers on all fronts. It comes together with simple pantry staples and requires minimal hands-on time. Let’s get into the recipe and show you how to whip up this comforting classic.
Recipe: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 50–55 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 pound (450g) ground beef
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1½ cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
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1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
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½ cup sour cream
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
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½ cup beef broth (or water)
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Optional: ½ cup frozen peas or diced bell pepper for extra veggies
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Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a round or rectangular baking dish with oil or non-stick spray. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
Add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, or until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
Lower the heat and stir in the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, beef broth, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. If you’re adding veggies like peas or peppers, mix them in now. Stir everything until well combined and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly with a spoon or spatula. Sprinkle an extra layer of shredded cheddar cheese generously on top.
Step 5: Bake
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables if desired.
This Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole is more than just a meal – it’s a warm hug in a baking dish. It brings together all the classic comfort food elements: savory beef, creamy texture, and gooey cheese. The best part? You can customize it to your taste by using different veggies, cheese blends, or even switching to ground turkey for a lighter version.
Make it ahead, freeze the leftovers, or double the recipe for a crowd – it’s as versatile as it is delicious. Try it once, and it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation. Nothing beats the joy of digging into a warm, cheesy casserole after a long day.