Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole

It’s 6pm and you need a dinner that everyone will actually eat. This Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is the answer to your busy weeknight prayers.

If you are craving something creamy and comforting, look no further. This dish delivers big flavors with very little effort. You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry right now.

Why You’ll Make This Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole Again

This recipe is a total weeknight dinner hero for several reasons. It is incredibly reliable and satisfying. You can have it on the table in under an hour.

As the weather cools down in the Fall, you need warm meals. This casserole provides that cozy feeling without the stress. It is also perfect for picky eaters who love cheese and beef.

How This Comes Together

You start by browning the beef with fresh aromatics. Mixing everything in one bowl makes the process very simple. The oven does most of the hard work for you.

Using pre-cooked rice is a major time-saving shortcut here. This ensures your casserole is never mushy or undercooked. Even beginners can master this dish on the first try.

What You’ll Need

These are simple, everyday ingredients you can find at any grocery store.

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups cooked long-grain white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef until no longer pink.
3. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet.
4. Cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Drain the excess fat from the skillet carefully.
7. In a large bowl, combine beef, rice, soup, milk, and 1.5 cups cheese.
8. Stir in the salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until well mixed.
9. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
10. Top with the remaining 0.5 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
11. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is bubbling.
12. Let it stand for 5 minutes before serving to your family.

How To Serve It

This casserole is a complete meal on its own. However, a side of steamed broccoli balances the richness perfectly. A simple green salad also works well for a lighter touch.

Serve it straight from the baking dish for easy cleanup. It is great for casual hosting or a simple family night. Your guests will definitely ask for seconds.

Leftovers & Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to four days. This dish actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld.

You can reheat individual portions in the microwave easily. For larger amounts, use the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if the rice seems dry.

Make It Even Better (Pro Tips)

• Don’t skip the resting time before serving the casserole.
• Avoid overcooking the rice before adding it to the mix.
• Use sharp cheddar cheese for the most impactful flavor.
• Drain the beef thoroughly to avoid a greasy texture.
• Make this for a back-to-school meal to save evening time.
• Add a pinch of cayenne if you want a little heat.
• Garnish with fresh parsley to make it look impressive.

Easy Ways to Change It Up

• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner option.
• Use cream of chicken soup if you dislike mushrooms.
• Add a bag of frozen peas for an extra serving of veggies.
• Try pepper jack cheese to give it a spicy kick.

Quick Questions

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, you can use cooked brown rice. Just ensure it is fully cooked before mixing it in. The texture will be slightly nuttier and firmer.

Can I freeze this casserole?

This casserole freezes very well for up to three months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking. You may need to add five extra minutes to the bake time.

What if I don’t have a 9×13 dish?

You can use any large oven-safe casserole dish. A 2.5 or 3-quart dish will work perfectly. Just watch the thickness to ensure it heats through evenly.

I hope your family loves this easy meal as much as mine does. It is proof that dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. Give it a try tonight!

— Ethan

Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Calories: 485

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb ground beef (85/15)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 small green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 3 cups cooked long-grain white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 tsp sal t
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it into small crumbles.
3. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant; drain excess fat from the skillet.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef mixture, cooked rice, condensed soup, milk, 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika.
6. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
7. Top with the remaining 0.5 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbling.
9. Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.