If you are craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef with creamy, cheesy rice, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is here to win your heart (and your taste buds!). It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a busy day, bringing together simple ingredients in a delightfully satisfying way. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or even just yourself, this casserole hits all the right notes with its perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and wholesome goodness.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients is all it takes to create this luscious casserole. Each component plays a vital role, from the juicy ground beef providing that hearty depth, to the tender rice soaking up all the savory juices, and the generous cheddar cheese that blankets every bite with creamy indulgence.

1 pound ground beef: The star protein that delivers rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture.
1 onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and aromatic depth to the mix.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with warm, pungent notes that enhance every bite.
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked: Absorbs flavor beautifully while giving the casserole a satisfying bite.
2 cups beef broth: Creates a rich, savory base and ensures the rice cooks perfectly fluffy.
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained: Brings in a fresh, slightly tangy contrast that brightens the dish.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds complexity and a subtle earthiness.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together just right.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey perfection, enveloping the casserole in cheesy comfort.
1/2 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a gentle tang that balances the richness.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to keep the casserole from sticking and to help it brown beautifully on the edges.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and fragrant, making sure to drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming too greasy. This step builds the savory foundation of the dish.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. This is where flavors meld and the texture comes alive.

Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Sour Cream

Remove the pan from the heat and fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese along with the sour cream. This step adds creaminess and a luscious cheesy richness that makes the casserole so irresistibly moist and decadent.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. The baking process melds the ingredients together every more while delivering that irresistible cheesy crust on top.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking—this helps it set up nicely and makes it easier to serve. Dive in while warm for the most comforting experience.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes can take your casserole from delicious to dazzling. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and beef.

Side Dishes

This casserole stands wonderfully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or green beans adds freshness and balance, lightening up the meal just enough without competing with the casserole’s hearty flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins, topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika. Alternatively, add a layer of sliced mushrooms or roasted bell peppers into the mixture before baking for extra texture and an appealing smoky note.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The casserole keeps well for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent choice for quick lunches or second-night dinners that still taste like they’ve been freshly made.

Freezing

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it can be stored for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, place a portion in the microwave or oven and warm until steaming hot. Covering the dish with foil in the oven prevents drying out, while stirring occasionally in the microwave helps the casserole heat evenly to bring back that creamy cheesy goodness.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and a bit more chewiness. Just keep in mind that brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the simmering time and broth quantity accordingly.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing before baking?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to the baking step and freeze it. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed. This makes it great for meal prepping ahead of busy days.

Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?

For sure! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before mixing with the other ingredients to keep the casserole safe and delicious.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To amp up the heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the beef or mix in some chopped jalapeños with the tomatoes. This adds a lovely kick without overpowering the overall flavor balance.

What cheese works best if I don’t have cheddar?

While cheddar is classic and flavorful, other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even mozzarella can be used. Each will bring a slightly different texture and taste but all are wonderful in this casserole.

Final Thoughts

Trying out this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe is like inviting comfort and flavor right into your kitchen. It’s straightforward enough for weeknights but special enough to share with loved ones. Once you experience that perfect cheesy, meaty, and hearty harmony, this recipe is bound to become a favorite go-to in your cooking rotation. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

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4.3 from 57 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish combining savory ground beef, tender rice, and melty cheddar cheese baked to perfection. Perfect for a family dinner, it delivers rich flavors with Italian seasoning, garlic, and diced tomatoes in every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
2 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Dairy

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for baking the casserole later.
Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with diced onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Add Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Stir in Cheese and Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the sour cream along with half of the shredded cheddar cheese evenly into the beef and rice mixture.
Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling on the surface.
Serve Warm: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes after baking, then serve warm for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Notes

Drain excess fat from the cooked ground beef to reduce grease in the casserole.
If you prefer, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with a blend of cheeses for varied flavor.
Make sure to cover the skillet while simmering the rice to ensure it cooks evenly.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American