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Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty, comforting one-dish meal combining tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and creamy melted cheese. Easy to prepare and family-friendly, this savory casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner and customizable to suit your taste preferences.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Protein

  • 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)

Grains

  • 1 cup white or brown rice

Dairy

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)

Vegetables

  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas

Liquids

  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups beef broth

Spices and Herbs

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp dried parsley or fresh parsley for garnish

Optional Variations

  • Jalapeños or chili powder for heat
  • Cauliflower rice (swap for regular rice for low-carb)
  • Zucchini, spinach, or carrots for extra vegetables
  • Dairy-free cheese alternatives
  • Ground turkey or chicken as a meat substitute

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat until fully cooked and slightly crispy. Drain excess fat, then add chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and softened to build a flavorful base.
  2. Combine Rice and Liquids: Add rice, tomato sauce, and beef broth directly to the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir well to combine, allowing the rice to soak up the savory liquids and start cooking.
  3. Season and Simmer: Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs. Cover and let everything simmer gently for about 15 to 20 minutes or until the rice is tender.
  4. Add Cheese and Mix: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in most of the shredded cheese, reserving some to sprinkle on top later for a gooey finish.
  5. Bake the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheese and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Notes

  • Use fresh onions and garlic to elevate the flavor more than powders or pre-minced options.
  • Keep the rice slightly underdone before baking to avoid a mushy casserole.
  • Mix cheeses like mozzarella and cheddar to create a creamier, more complex flavor.
  • Season gradually and taste as you go to avoid over-salting and balance the sweetness from tomato sauce.
  • Let the casserole rest a few minutes after baking to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: ground beef casserole, cheese and rice casserole, comforting dinner, easy casserole, weeknight meal