Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic That Never Fails

There’s something truly special about the kind of meal that can bring people together around the dinner table. Casseroles have always had a way of doing just that — simple, hearty, and full of flavor. For me, Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is one of those dishes that instantly brings back warm family memories. The smell of seasoned ground beef simmering with onions, the comforting aroma of cheese melting in the oven, and the golden, bubbly top that makes everyone eager to dig in — it’s the definition of home-cooked comfort.

This casserole is the perfect example of how you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something amazing. With just a few pantry staples like rice, ground beef, soup, and cheese, you can make a complete meal that feels rich, filling, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family, cooking for a potluck, or simply craving something cozy on a cold evening, this dish is always a hit.

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Why You’ll Love This Casserole

The best part about this recipe is how easy and convenient it is. Everything cooks together in one dish, which means less cleanup and more time to relax. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen or use complicated techniques — just simple ingredients coming together beautifully.

It’s also budget-friendly. All the ingredients are affordable and easy to find, making it ideal for busy families or anyone cooking on a budget. Despite its simplicity, this casserole delivers big on flavor. The combination of savory beef, creamy sauce, and melted cheese creates a satisfying balance that appeals to both kids and adults. Even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds.

Another reason to love this dish is that it’s freezer-friendly. You can prepare it ahead of time, freeze it, and then bake it when you need a quick weeknight dinner. It’s perfect for meal prep and makes excellent leftovers that reheat well in the oven or microwave.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for about three to four minutes, until the vegetables become soft and fragrant. This adds sweetness and flavor depth to the casserole.

Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until all ingredients are well combined and the rice is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in and bake for about 45 minutes. This allows the rice to cook fully and absorb all the delicious flavors.

Step 6: Add the Cheese
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Place the casserole back in the oven, uncovered, for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on the edges.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the oven and let it rest for about five minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting blend of textures and flavors.

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Chef Tips and Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust it based on your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Some Spice: If you enjoy a bit of heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños before baking.
• Healthier Version: Substitute the ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken, and use brown rice for added fiber.
• Creamier Texture: For an extra creamy casserole, stir in a few tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese before transferring the mixture to the baking dish.
• More Vegetables: Feel free to add frozen peas, corn, or chopped broccoli for extra color and nutrients.
• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for different flavor profiles.

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Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides. Try serving it with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or dinner rolls also make excellent companions, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. If you prefer a vegetable side, roasted green beans or steamed broccoli are great choices that complement the casserole’s flavors.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. The casserole can also be frozen before or after baking. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Final Thoughts

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is more than just a dinner recipe — it’s a reminder of how simple, home-cooked meals can bring joy and comfort. It’s the kind of dish that fills the house with inviting aromas and leaves everyone satisfied and happy. With its creamy texture, gooey cheese, and hearty ingredients, it’s a timeless favorite that will never go out of style.

Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, preparing a make-ahead freezer meal, or just looking for a reliable comfort food recipe, this casserole will not disappoint. It’s easy, delicious, and packed with flavor, making it a recipe worth keeping on regular rotation.