This recipe is seriously addictive—one bite and your family will be asking for it every single week
Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole
When you’re craving a warm, filling, and comforting homemade meal, this Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is just what you need. Made with simple ingredients like ground beef, tender rice, creamy soups, and melted cheddar cheese, this delicious casserole is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
It’s a wonderful option for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Everything comes together in one baking dish, making preparation and cleanup a breeze.
The combination of seasoned beef, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a hearty dish the whole family will enjoy. It’s also great for preparing ahead, freezing for later, or customizing with your favorite vegetables. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and comforting dinner.
🥘 Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb | |
| Onion | 1 small, finely chopped | |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | |
| Long-grain white rice | 1 cup, uncooked | |
| Beef broth | 2½ cups | Or water with bouillon |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 (10.5 oz) can | |
| Cream of cheddar soup | 1 (10.5 oz) can | Cream of chicken works too |
| Cheddar cheese | 1½ cups, shredded | Divided |
| Sour cream | ½ cup | |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tsp | |
| Paprika | ½ tsp | |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | |
| Fresh parsley | Optional | For garnish |
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Mix Everything Together
In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, cream of cheddar soup, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
4. Fill the Baking Dish
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to help the rice cook properly.
5. Bake Until Tender
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Carefully remove the foil.
6. Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for approximately 10 minutes, until the cheese has melted and becomes bubbly.
7. Rest and Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for about 5 minutes before serving. Finish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
✨ Serving Suggestions
Serve this cheesy casserole warm with a crisp garden salad, roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread. For extra flavor, add a little more shredded cheddar or a sprinkle of paprika before serving.
Creamy, hearty, and loaded with cheesy goodness, this easy ground beef and rice casserole is a wonderful addition to your family dinner rotation!
