Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

A simple, satisfying dish, Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a delightful blend of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and creamy cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this casserole is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser for family dinners and gatherings. Its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients make it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare – With just 10 minutes of prep time, this casserole can be in the oven in no time.
• Family-friendly – Everyone loves cheesy comfort food! This dish will please even the pickiest eaters.
• Budget-friendly – Using affordable ingredients, this meal won’t break the bank while still being filling and delicious.
• Versatile – You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
• One-pan wonder – Everything cooks together, making cleanup a breeze after your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet – Essential for browning the beef and cooking the onions evenly.
• Mixing bowl – Allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly before baking.
• Baking dish – A 9×13-inch size is perfect for even cooking and easy serving.

Ingredients

A simple, satisfying casserole that combines seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and creamy cheese sauce into one hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

For the Casserole

• 1 pound ground beef (lean preferred, 85/15 or 90/10)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cups cooked white rice (from about 3/4 cup uncooked)
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (1 1/2 cups for mixing, 1/2 cup for topping)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Beef and Onion

Place a large skillet over medium heat.
* Add the ground beef and diced onion.
* Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
* Cook until the beef is browned and onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
* Drain off any excess grease from the pan.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Return the drained beef and onion mixture to the skillet.
* Sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
* Stir well to distribute seasonings evenly.
* Cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Mix Ingredients Together

In a large mixing bowl:
* Combine the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese.
* Add in the seasoned beef mixture.
* Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
Spread it out evenly with a spatula to ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Top with Cheese

Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This will create a delicious golden crust as it bakes.

Step 7: Bake in Oven

Place the casserole in your preheated oven.
Bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly throughout.

Step 8: Broil for Extra Crispiness (Optional)

For an extra crispy topping:
Switch your oven to broiler setting for the last 2-3 minutes.
Watch closely to prevent burning!

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy

Remove from oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for color and flavor.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Serving Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole can be a delightful experience for both you and your guests. This hearty dish pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes that enhance its flavors and presentation.

Add Fresh Greens

• Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the casserole.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans provide a nutritious contrast and vibrant color to your plate.

Garnish Creatively

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: Sprinkling parsley on top not only adds color but also a fresh flavor.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop can add creaminess and tang, enhancing the overall taste.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: This classic side complements the casserole perfectly, adding crunch and flavor.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls are great for mopping up any cheesy goodness left on your plate.

How to Perfect Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Perfecting your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole will ensure it’s always a hit at dinner time. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for 85/15 or 90/10 ground beef to reduce excess grease while keeping it flavorful.
• Cook Rice Properly: Make sure to use fluffy, cooked rice for the best texture—overcooked rice can become mushy.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try mixing in different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; they enhance the overall taste, making every bite delicious.
• Broil for Crispiness: For a golden crust, broil the casserole for the last few minutes of cooking, but watch closely!
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit briefly before serving; this helps it hold its shape better when sliced.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Pairing sides with your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A crunchy salad with assorted greens offers a refreshing contrast.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized flavor adds depth alongside the rich casserole.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, balancing the dish’s richness.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans complement the savory flavors of the casserole beautifully.
5. Corn on the Cob: Fresh corn is sweet and juicy, making it a perfect sidekick to this hearty meal.
6. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting duo with the casserole’s cheesy goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Using uncooked rice: Using uncooked rice instead of cooked will result in a hard and crunchy texture. Make sure your rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.

• Skipping seasoning: Not seasoning the beef properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season your ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to enhance the overall taste.

• Overbaking: Overbaking can dry out the casserole, making it less enjoyable. Keep an eye on the cooking time and remove it from the oven once it’s hot and bubbly.

• Not letting it rest: Cutting into the casserole immediately can cause it to fall apart. Allowing it to rest for about 5 minutes helps set the layers for better serving.

• Ignoring cheese quality: Using low-quality cheese can affect both flavor and texture. Opt for good-quality cheddar cheese for a creamier, richer topping.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Ensure it cools completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

• Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• For best results, wrap tightly in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole?

Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a comforting dish made with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and creamy cheese sauce. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or swap out the cheese for your favorite type. This recipe is versatile enough to fit your family’s tastes.

How do I make this dish healthier?

To make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole healthier, use leaner ground beef or substitute turkey. You can also add more vegetables or use brown rice instead of white rice.

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

Yes! You can assemble everything a day ahead and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Just adjust cooking time as needed if it’s coming straight from the fridge.

How do I know when my casserole is done?

The casserole is done when it’s hot and bubbly throughout, and the cheese on top has melted and just starts to turn golden brown around the edges.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is not only satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Its creamy texture combined with hearty flavors makes it ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences!

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