Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

 

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: A Comfort Food Classic

If there’s one dish that never fails to bring comfort to the dinner table, it’s a warm, hearty casserole. And when it comes to crowd-pleasing comfort food, few recipes can compete with the rich, satisfying flavors of Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. This one-dish wonder is the perfect blend of seasoned beef, tender rice, and melted cheese — all baked together to create a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This casserole is more than just a quick weeknight dinner — it’s a go-to meal that’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding a large group, prepping meals for the week, or just want something warm and filling after a long day, this dish checks every box.

Plus, it’s made with simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen: ground beef, white rice, cheese, and a few pantry staples. No fancy techniques, no complicated steps — just a classic recipe that delivers every time.

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Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup uncooked white rice

• 2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

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How to Make It

1. Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.

2. Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with diced onions and garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat.

3. Mix the Casserole

In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until everything is well mixed.

4. Bake

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, top with additional cheese, and bake for another 10-15 minutes or until the rice is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

5. Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.

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Tips & Variations

• Make it spicy: Add a can of green chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the dish a kick.

• Add veggies: Mix in corn, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

• Swap the meat: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole in the morning, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

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A Family Favorite That Never Gets Old

The beauty of this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a dish that brings people together, fills bellies, and often becomes a permanent addition to the dinner rotation. Whether it’s your first time trying it or it’s already a household staple, this casserole is bound to hit the spot.

So the next time you're in need of a satisfying meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, give this cheesy, beefy, rice-filled delight a try. It’s comfort food done right — and your taste buds will thank you.