Table of Contents: Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

When it comes to hearty, family-friendly meals that everyone will love, our Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole takes center stage. This dish combines tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a creamy cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering with friends, this easy ground beef casserole is guaranteed to satisfy.

Why settle for ordinary when you can create something extraordinary? This recipe is a nostalgic nod to classic comfort food, with a modern twist that makes it even easier to prepare. The baked rice and ground beef combo is a crowd-pleaser, and the melty cheese topping adds that irresistible finishing touch. Plus, it’s versatile, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prepping.

Read on to discover why this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. Let’s dive in!

Why This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Is a Must-Try

There’s something magical about a dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a meal that feels like a warm hug. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is exactly that—a comforting blend of flavors and textures that’s easy to make and impossible to resist.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, satisfying dinner. It’s also ideal for family gatherings or potlucks, where its hearty nature ensures no one leaves hungry. The hamburger and rice casserole base can be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a versatile option for any occasion.

What sets this easy ground beef casserole apart is its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making it a great option for meal prepping.

Alternate Names & Variations

This dish goes by many names, depending on where you’re from. You might hear it called Hamburger and Rice Casserole, Baked Rice and Ground Beef, or simply Beef and Rice Bake. No matter what you call it, the result is the same—a delicious, cheesy masterpiece.

For variations, try adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra veggies. Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist. You can even experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack or gouda, to change up the flavor profile.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting dish:

– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
– 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture, uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, beef broth, sour cream, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.

6. Add Cheese: Sprinkle an extra layer of shredded cheddar cheese on top.

7. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Recipe Card Block

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 6 | Calories: Approx. 450 per serving

Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a winner because it’s incredibly easy to prepare yet delivers big on flavor. The combination of creamy soups, beef broth, and sour cream ensures the rice stays moist and tender.

For best results, use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease. If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of broth slightly.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until heated through.

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like the comforting flavors of a Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and share your delicious results with us!

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