Here’s a comforting, family-friendly recipe for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole—a hearty one-dish meal that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals.
🧀 Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or 2½ cups cooked rice)
- 2 cups beef broth (if using uncooked rice)
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables or corn (optional)
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1–2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish
Instructions:
If using uncooked rice:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Brown the beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
- Add garlic and cook another minute. Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika.
- Mix the casserole:
- In a large bowl, combine beef mixture, uncooked rice, beef broth, soup, sour cream, vegetables (if using), and 1½ cups cheese. Mix well.
- Bake:
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until rice is tender.
- Add cheese and finish baking:
- Remove foil, sprinkle with more cheese, and bake uncovered for another 5–10 minutes until bubbly and golden.
If using cooked rice:
- Omit the beef broth.
- Mix everything in a bowl (with cooked rice), pour into the dish, and bake uncovered at 375°F for 25–30 minutes.
💡 Tips:
- Add diced bell peppers or green chilies for extra flavor.
- Use a Mexican cheese blend and taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex version.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze in portions.
Would you like a slow cooker version or a printable meal prep card?