If you’re craving comfort food that hits all the right notes, this Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender ground beef mingling perfectly with fluffy rice, all smothered in a creamy, savory sauce and topped with a golden, bubbling layer of sharp cheddar cheese. This dish is not only a hearty, satisfying dinner but also a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in a way that feels like a warm hug on your plate. It’s easy to make, wonderfully versatile, and perfect for feeding a family or prepping for the week ahead.

Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this recipe comes down to a handful of staples that you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. Each ingredient plays an important part, creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this casserole irresistibly tasty and visually appealing.

1 lb ground beef: The rich base of the dish, providing hearty protein and depth of flavor.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch, balancing the meatiness.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Lends a fragrant warmth that brightens the entire dish.
1 1/2 cups cooked rice (white or brown): A comforting filler that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken): Adds creaminess and a luscious texture that ties the casserole together.
1/2 cup beef broth (or water): Enhances the savory taste while keeping the filling moist.
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Brings a subtle tang and umami punch that lifts the beef’s flavor.
1/2 tsp dried thyme: Earthy and aromatic, it adds a lovely herbaceous note.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that highlight all the other flavors.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): The star of the show, melting into a golden, cheesy crust that’s seriously addictive.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional): For adding an extra crispy crunch on top, if you like a bit of texture contrast.

How to Make Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This sets the stage for baking your beautifully cheesy casserole without any sticking, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your ground beef until it’s browned and nicely crumbled, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from feeling greasy. Add your diced onion and garlic, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes to soften the onions and let the garlic release its amazing aroma.

Step 3: Prepare the Casserole Filling

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Stir in the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything until it’s well combined and heated through—this usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes. The filling should be creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the beef and rice mixture into your prepared casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top and, if you want a little extra crunch, scatter breadcrumbs over the cheese. Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Finish with a Cheesy Crust

For that perfect golden crust that takes this casserole from great to unforgettable, broil it for 1 to 2 minutes at the end. Just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or parsley adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh bite that complements the rich casserole beautifully. If you want a bit of heat, a few red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can bring an exciting twist.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp, green salads to balance its creamy richness. Think fresh baby spinach, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots also make perfect, healthy companions that add texture and brighten the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this casserole in rustic ceramic dishes to enhance the cozy feel, or portion it into small ramekins for individual servings that look charming and festive. You can also top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of salsa for extra flavor layers that excite your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of the Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe keep wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors meld even more as it sits, making the next-day meal just as delicious.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully! After baking and cooling completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Label each container with the date, so you know when to enjoy it next. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, cover your leftovers with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. If you want to revive the cheesy crust, remove the foil during the last few minutes of baking or quickly broil to get that crispy top again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While cheddar gives a sharp, classic flavor and great melt, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just keep the cheese quantity about the same for the perfect crust.

Is it necessary to use cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute cream of chicken soup if you prefer, or even use a homemade white sauce for a fresher twist. The soup helps bind the casserole and keep it moist, so replacing it with a similar creamy element is key.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. Adjust seasonings accordingly to maintain depth of flavor, and the cheesy crust will still shine as the star.

How can I make the casserole gluten-free?

To keep this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether. Ensure that the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth are also labeled gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients naturally fit a gluten-free diet.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time before baking?

Definitely! Assemble the casserole in your dish, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is a delicious reminder that some of the best meals come from simple ingredients, brought together with a little love and care. It’s a comforting, satisfying dish that will have everyone asking for seconds and making memories around your table. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make this recipe a new classic in your home!

Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 81 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for a family meal. It combines seasoned ground beef, cooked rice, and a creamy mushroom soup base, all topped with melted cheddar cheese and an optional crunchy breadcrumb topping. Baked until bubbly and golden, this casserole offers a deliciously cheesy crust with savory flavors in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

Optional Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook together for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
Prepare the Casserole Filling: Stir in the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly and cook for another 3-4 minutes to heat through and combine the flavors well.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. If you like extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the cheese.
Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden crust, turn on the broiler and broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs or chopped green onions for added color and flavor.

Notes

You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
If you want a lighter option, omit the breadcrumbs or use whole wheat breadcrumbs.
Using brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and increase fiber content.
For a gluten-free version, ensure the soup and breadcrumbs are gluten-free.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American