If you’re looking for a comforting and straightforward meal that satisfies the whole family, a Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is your new best friend. This dish combines simple ingredients into a hearty, flavorful casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner. It’s easy to prepare, packed with protein and carbs, and offers endless opportunities for customization. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned cook, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless preparation: Minimal steps and everyday ingredients make this a stress-free meal to whip up any night of the week.
Family-friendly flavors: The hearty combination of ground beef, rice, and savory spices appeals to all ages and taste preferences.
Budget-friendly: Ground beef and rice are affordable staples, making this casserole an economical choice without sacrificing taste.
Make-ahead convenience: Prepare in advance for easy reheating after a busy day, saving you time and energy.
Customizable: Easily adapt the dish with different veggies, cheeses, or seasonings to suit your cravings or dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of a Ground Beef and Rice Casserole lies in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each component contributes a unique texture, flavor, or color that blends perfectly to create a cozy, satisfying meal.

Ground beef: Choose lean or regular, depending on your preference, as it’s the protein-packed base of the casserole.
Cooked rice: White, brown, or even jasmine rice works great, providing hearty texture and soaking up the flavors.
Onions and garlic: These aromatics build the foundational flavor and add delicious depth.
Tomato sauce or diced tomatoes: Adds moisture and a tangy richness that complements the beef perfectly.
Cheese: Melts beautifully on top, adding creaminess and a golden crust to your casserole.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs elevate the dish with balanced, inviting flavors.
Vegetables: Optional but highly recommended; bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach bring color and nutrition.

Variations for Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

One of the most enjoyable parts about making a Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is how adaptable it is. You can easily personalize it based on what you have on hand or your dietary goals.

Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who love a bit of heat.
Cheesy explosion: Mix in different cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack to intensify flavor.
Veggie boost: Incorporate chopped zucchini, carrots, or peas for added color and nutritional value.
Low-carb version: Swap rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter casserole option.
Herb-infused: Fresh parsley, basil, or rosemary can add a vibrant fresh layer to the dish.

Easy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Ideas

How to Make Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Beef

Heat a pan over medium heat and sauté chopped onions and garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and no longer pink.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Stir in tomato sauce or diced tomatoes along with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors thoroughly.

Step 3: Combine with Cooked Rice and Vegetables

In a large bowl, mix the beef-tomato mixture with cooked rice and any chopped vegetables you want to include. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly combined.

Step 4: Transfer to a Baking Dish and Add Cheese

Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the top for that perfect golden crust.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Drain excess fat: Remove extra grease from browned beef to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
Use day-old rice: It reduces moisture content for better texture and less mushiness.
Layer flavors: Sauté onions and garlic properly for a richer base and more depth in taste.
Rest before serving: Let the casserole sit 5-10 minutes after baking to firm up for easier slicing and serving.
Experiment with cheese: Mix cheeses or add cream cheese or sour cream for a creamier texture inside.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro add a pop of green and a fresh aroma. You can also top your casserole with sliced green onions or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside simple salads, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to round out the meal. A crisp side of roasted broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad pairs beautifully without overwhelming the casserole’s flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in mini casserole dishes or ramekins for a charming dinner presentation. Another fun idea is to top each serving with a fried egg for a satisfying brunch twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the casserole fresh and ready to reheat whenever you need a quick meal.

Freezing

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole freezes well in portioned airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to retain moisture, or microwave individual portions with a damp paper towel over the dish to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat in this casserole?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well if you want a lighter or vegetarian option.

Is it better to use fresh or leftover rice?

Day-old or leftover rice is preferable because it is drier and helps prevent the casserole from becoming mushy.

Can I prepare the casserole in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

What type of cheese works best for this dish?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of Italian cheeses melt well and complement the flavors wonderfully, but feel free to experiment.

How can I make the casserole healthier?

Use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey, add plenty of vegetables, and opt for brown rice to increase fiber and nutrients.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is an all-time favorite for good reason: it’s simple, comforting, and endlessly adaptable. Give this recipe a try tonight and watch it become a fast favorite in your home. The warm, satisfying flavors and easy prep make it a perfect weeknight solution that everyone will enjoy.

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Print Recipe

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish combining lean ground beef, cooked rice, aromatic onions and garlic, tomato sauce, and melted cheese for a hearty, protein-packed meal perfect for busy weeknights. This versatile casserole is family-friendly, budget-conscious, and customizable with various veggies, spices, and cheeses to suit any taste or dietary need.

Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)

Grains

2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)

Aromatics

1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Tomato Base

1 cup tomato sauce or 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

Cheese

1 to 1½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or blend)

Seasonings

1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian herbs

Optional Vegetables

½ cup chopped bell peppers
½ cup sliced mushrooms
½ cup chopped spinach

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics and Beef: Heat a pan over medium heat and sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until browned and no longer pink.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato sauce or diced tomatoes along with salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to blend the flavors thoroughly.
Combine with Cooked Rice and Vegetables: In a large bowl, mix the beef-tomato mixture with cooked rice and any chopped optional vegetables you want to include. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly combined.
Transfer to a Baking Dish and Add Cheese: Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the top for a perfect golden crust.
Bake Until Bubbly: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.

Notes

Drain excess fat from browned beef to prevent the casserole from becoming oily.
Use day-old rice to reduce moisture content for better texture and less mushiness.
Sauté onions and garlic properly to layer flavors and build depth in the dish.
Let the casserole rest 5-10 minutes after baking to firm up for easier slicing and serving.
Experiment with cheese blends or add cream cheese or sour cream for a creamier texture inside.

Author: Lina
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
Trans Fat: 0.5 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 22 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: ground beef casserole, rice casserole, easy dinner, weeknight meal, family-friendly casserole, comfort food, one-dish meal, baked casserole