Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

By: ALICE PUCK | Published onFebruary 15, 2026

Introduction

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole has been a beloved staple in many households, and for good reason! This comforting dish combines lean ground beef, fluffy rice, and creamy cheese into a warm embrace of flavor that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I remember the first time I made this casserole; the aroma alone brought everyone running to the kitchen! It’s a one-dish wonder that not only satisfies the hunger of even the pickiest eaters but also warms the soul.

What Makes This Recipe Special

You might wonder why you should take the time to whip up this particular casserole. Well, it’s a fantastic blend of simplicity, taste, and family-friendliness. In just one hour, you can prepare a wholesome meal that is both budget-friendly and filling. Plus, it’s made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry!

"This casserole is an absolute winner! It’s quick to make, and both kids and adults fight over the last bite." — A satisfied home cook.

Preparing Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This dish is straightforward to prepare, making it an ideal option for any cooking skill level. The process involves browning some beef, preparing a creamy sauce, and stacking it all together in a baking dish. In a nutshell, it’s about layering my favorite flavors to create a bubbling, cheesy goodness.

What You’ll Need

Before diving in, let’s gather our ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:

1 lb lean ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked white rice
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
1/2 cup milk or beef broth
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Feel free to swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken if you prefer!

Directions to Follow

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion. Sauté until the meat is browned and the onion is soft, then drain any excess fat.
Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an extra 30 seconds until fragrant.
Create the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the casserole: In your prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, the beef mixture, half of your shredded cheese, and the creamy sauce. Mix everything together thoroughly.
Top and bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, cover with foil, and bake for 20 minutes.
Finish baking: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden. For an extra crispy topping, broil for 2 minutes!
Serve: If desired, garnish with chopped parsley and enjoy your delicious creation hot!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

To elevate your cheesy ground beef casserole experience, consider serving it alongside a seasonal salad or some garlic bread. You might also pair it with roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. The leftovers (if there are any!) can easily be enjoyed the next day for lunch.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

Storing your leftovers is simple. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you’d like to freeze it, consider portioning it out before freezing for easy meals later on. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Pro Chef Tips for Success

Lean meat selection: Using extra-lean ground beef helps keep the dish healthier, but don’t hesitate to use turkey for a lighter option.
Flavor boost: For a little extra depth of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the beef while it’s browning.
Cheese variations: While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in some Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.

Creative Twists

Want to switch things up? Try incorporating veggies like spinach or bell peppers right into the casserole. Or, for a Tex-Mex flair, toss in some black beans and use taco seasoning for a different spin.

Common Questions

How long will this casserole last in the fridge?
When stored in an airtight container, your cheesy ground beef and rice casserole can last up to four days in the refrigerator.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just ensure that the brown rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole as it has a longer cooking time than white rice.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes! This casserole freezes beautifully. Make sure it’s cooled, then wrap it tightly before placing it in the freezer. It can be stored for up to three months.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushroom soup or want a different flavor, cream of chicken soup works great. You can also make homemade cream soups using milk and flour for thickening.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through or place the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Are there any dietary adjustments I can make?
For a gluten-free version, check the soup and broth labels to ensure they’re gluten-free. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the beef with a variety of beans or lentils.

How can I make this dish spicier?
To spice things up, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture while cooking.

What side dishes pair well with this casserole?
A light garden salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread are excellent companions to balance the richness of the casserole.