Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this casserole is easy to put together and always a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, this recipe is a go-to option when you need something filling, flavorful, and quick to prepare. Serve this dish for dinner, and watch it quickly become a family favorite!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Mix the Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and milk. Stir in the cooked ground beef mixture, cooked rice, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. If using, add the frozen peas.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Use Freshly Cooked Rice: Freshly cooked rice works best for this recipe, but leftover rice can also be used. Just make sure the rice is fluffy and not too sticky.
- Drain Excess Grease: Make sure to drain the excess grease from the cooked ground beef to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the seasoning to your preference by adding more paprika, garlic powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
Recipe Variations
- Mexican-Inspired Casserole: Add 1 cup of salsa, a can of drained black beans, and 1/2 teaspoon of cumin to the casserole mixture. Use Monterey Jack cheese for a Tex-Mex twist.
- Vegetable-Packed Casserole: Add 1 cup of chopped bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the skillet while cooking the ground beef for added nutrition.
- Creamy Chicken and Rice: Substitute the ground beef with cooked, shredded chicken and use cream of chicken soup for a different take on the classic casserole.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes, then bake as directed.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve the casserole with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans for added nutrition.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread or dinner rolls for a comforting, hearty meal.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy dinner that’s perfect for busy nights. The combination of seasoned beef, tender rice, creamy sauce, and melted cheese makes this dish a family favorite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this casserole is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors in every bite!
This casserole is versatile and can be easily customized to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you add vegetables, spice it up, or keep it classic, this dish is sure to be a hit. Share it with friends and family, and watch it become a favorite at your dinner table!
