Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty, comfort food dish that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. This family-friendly recipe combines savory ground beef, fluffy white or brown rice, melted cheese, and a medley of flavorful seasonings and vegetables for a balanced, one-dish meal.
The ground beef is browned and seasoned with onions and garlic for a rich, meaty flavor. It is then combined with cooked rice and your choice of vegetables, such as peas, corn, or bell peppers, which add color and texture.
The dish is layered or mixed with cheese—typically cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of both—to create a gooey, creamy base that ties all the flavors together.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 Ib ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice white rice or brown rice
- 2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
Instructions
- Prep and Sauté: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté until soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked (around 7-8 minutes). Drain excess grease, if necessary.
- Season the Beef: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using). Add the frozen mixed vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened. Add Rice and Liquids Stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it’s well mixed with the beef and vegetables. Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. Continue cooking until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.
- Add Cheese: Once the rice is cooked, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover with the lid for 3-5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely.
- Serve: Remove from heat and let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added brightness, if desired.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines simplicity, heartiness, and rich flavor in one dish. Here’s why it’s destined to become one of your go-to meals:
1. Comfort in Every Bite
Few dishes are as comforting as a warm casserole. The combination of tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey melted cheese makes each bite feel like a cozy hug. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to share with family, this casserole is satisfying and nostalgic, evoking memories of home-cooked meals.
2. Easy and Convenient
Life can get hectic, and that’s where this casserole shines. It’s a one-pan meal that eliminates the need for multiple pots and pans, meaning less time spent cooking and cleaning. You can prep it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready, making it a perfect choice for meal planning or busy nights.
3. Affordable Ingredients
This dish uses pantry staples and budget-friendly ingredients like ground beef, rice, canned tomatoes, and cheese. These simple ingredients are readily available and won’t break the bank, making the casserole accessible to almost anyone. Plus, you can customize it with vegetables or spices without much added cost.
4. Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about this casserole is its versatility. You can adapt it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Want to add some extra nutrition? Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or peas. Prefer a little heat? Add some chili flakes or jalapeños.
You can even swap out the protein for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. The dish is also forgiving if you need to use leftover rice or vegetables from another meal.
5. Family-Friendly
Kids and adults alike love this casserole. The melty cheese and mild flavor make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters. You can also sneak in extra veggies without sacrificing taste, giving you peace of mind knowing your family is enjoying a balanced meal. It’s a great option for family dinners or potlucks where you want something that pleases everyone.
6. Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly
This casserole is perfect for meal prep because it stores and reheats beautifully. You can make it ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat individual portions for easy lunches or quick dinners. It also freezes well, making it ideal for busy weeks or when you need a ready-made meal in a pinch.
7. Crowd-Pleaser
Whether you’re hosting friends, attending a potluck, or just feeding a hungry household, this casserole will win hearts. It’s hearty, flavorful, and filling, making it perfect for feeding a crowd without much effort.
