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)
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
