Cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food, a dish that evokes memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. Seriously, just thinking about that creamy cheese, savory ground beef, and fluffy rice makes me want to dive headfirst into a casserole dish! And let me tell you, this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole recipe is one that will become a staple in your kitchen.
Table of Contents
I’m so excited to share this recipe with you because it’s more than just a meal; it’s a hug in a dish. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, and your tummy with happiness. Ready to get started?
Why You Will Love This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole Recipe
What’s not to love about a cheesy, flavorful casserole that’s also incredibly easy to make? This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying meal on the table. The combination of hearty ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese is a guaranteed crowd pleaser, appealing to both kids and adults.
Plus, this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to your liking by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. It’s also a great way to use up leftover rice or ground beef! Want to try another incredibly comforting recipe? Check out my Easy Sausage And Egg Casserole. Follow us on Pinterest for even more delicious ideas!
I remember my mom making a similar casserole when I was growing up. It was always a special treat, and I loved helping her layer the ingredients. This recipe brings back those warm, fuzzy memories, while also being a delicious and satisfying meal in its own right. You can also enjoy a lighter meal with one of these “12 Best Delicious And Healthy Hot Chocolate Recipes The Little Shine 2” 12 healthy hot chocolate recipes.
Ingredients Needed for This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting casserole:
- Ground Beef: 1 pound
- Cooked Rice: 3 cups (cooked according to package directions)
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Tomato Sauce: 1 (15-ounce) can
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 (10.75-ounce) can
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, divided
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Dried Parsley: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
How to Make This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole Recipe
Get ready for the easiest and most satisfying casserole you’ll ever make!
- 1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- 2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain off any excess grease.
- 3. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- 4. Combine Sauce: Stir in the tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- 5. Layer Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, spread half of the cooked rice evenly. Top with half of the ground beef mixture. Sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- 6. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers with the remaining rice, ground beef mixture, and the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
- 7. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 8. Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole Recipe
This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can definitely dress it up with some sides.
- Serve with a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Add Some Veggies: Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are great additions.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and flavor.
How to Store This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole Recipe
Proper storage ensures that you can enjoy leftovers for days to come!
- Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
Tips to Make This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole Recipe
Want to make the *best* cheesy ground beef and rice casserole *ever*? Here are some of my top tips.
- Use High-Quality Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef with a lower fat content to avoid excessive grease.
- Don’t Overcook the Rice: Slightly undercooking the rice ensures it doesn’t become mushy in the casserole.
- Add Vegetables: Mix in some frozen peas, carrots, or corn for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
- Cheese Variations: Try using a blend of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby cheese for a more complex flavor.
Helpful Notes for This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole Recipe
Here are a few extra details to keep in mind for perfect results.
- Rice Type: Long-grain rice works best for this casserole, but you can also use brown rice or even quinoa for a healthier twist.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup Substitute: If you don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand, you can use cream of celery or cream of chicken soup instead.
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese or spices to your liking.
Variation of This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole Recipe
Feeling adventurous? Try these variations for a fun twist on the classic!
- Taco Casserole: Season the ground beef with taco seasoning and add a layer of salsa, black beans, and corn. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and a dollop of sour cream after baking.
- Mexican Casserole: Include chili powder, cumin, jalapeños, and a can of diced tomatoes to the ground beef mixture. Top the casserole with crushed tortilla chips before baking for some extra crunch.
- Sausage and Rice Casserole: Substitute some of the ground beef with sausage Easy Sausage And Egg Casserole
Can I use different types of rice in this casserole?
Yes, you can substitute the long-grain rice with brown rice or a wild rice blend for a nuttier flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as these varieties may take longer to cook.
What kind of cheese is best for cheesy ground beef and rice casserole?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheddar and Colby for a different flavor profile. A combination of cheeses adds depth and richness to the dish.
How can I make this casserole healthier?
To make a healthier cheesy ground beef and rice casserole, use lean ground beef or ground turkey, brown rice, and reduced-fat cheese. You can also add vegetables like diced bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a warm blanket on a chilly evening, a taste of home, and a guaranteed crowd pleaser. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dish that will bring smiles to everyone’s faces. What are you waiting for? Try this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole. If you cook it, please, leave your valuable comments here!
