Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is the ultimate family-friendly comfort food. Creamy, savory, and loaded with cheesy goodness, it’s the kind of satisfying one-dish meal that gets requested again and again. With tender rice, well-seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese baked into every bite, this casserole delivers on flavor, simplicity, and hearty appeal.

Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or freezer meal prep, this recipe uses pantry staples and comes together in under an hour. It’s customizable with vegetables, cheese types, and seasoning, making it a staple in any kitchen.

Ingredients Overview

Each ingredient in this casserole builds richness, texture, and that crave-worthy cheesy factor while remaining affordable and accessible.

Ground Beef (85% Lean) – Adds rich, savory flavor and protein. Browned with onion and seasoning, it’s the base of the dish.

White Rice (Cooked) – Soaks up the creamy sauce and binds the casserole. Long grain white rice works best for texture. Use leftover or freshly made rice.

Onion and Garlic – Bring depth and aroma to the beef layer. Cooked until softened for sweetness and flavor.

Bell Pepper (Optional) – Adds color and a subtle crunch. Red, green, or yellow peppers all work well.

Diced Tomatoes (with Juice) – Brings moisture, acidity, and body to the mixture. Adds a touch of brightness to balance the cheese and beef.

Cream of Mushroom Soup (or Cream of Chicken) – Adds creamy texture and richness. You can use homemade or canned.

Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar melts beautifully into the casserole. For extra melt, use a blend with mozzarella or Monterey Jack.

Milk or Broth – Thins the soup slightly for better texture and helps create a cohesive, scoopable casserole.

Worcestershire Sauce – Adds savory umami flavor that elevates the beef.

Salt, Pepper, Paprika – Basic seasoning blend to round out the flavor.

Parsley or Green Onion (for garnish) – Adds a fresh finish to balance the richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. Brown the Beef
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb ground beef with 1 diced onion and 2 cloves minced garlic. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon paprika. Cook until beef is browned and onion is soft, about 7–8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Add Bell Pepper and Tomatoes
   Stir in 1 diced bell pepper and 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with their juice. Cook for 3–4 minutes to soften the pepper slightly.
4. Mix the Sauce
   In a large bowl, combine 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup milk (or broth), 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, and 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine All Ingredients
   Add the cooked beef mixture and 2½ cups cooked white rice to the bowl. Mix everything together until well combined.
6. Assemble and Bake
   Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Smooth into an even layer. Top with an additional ½ cup shredded cheese.
7. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and golden.
8. Garnish and Serve
   Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or sliced green onions for a fresh finish.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Use Brown Rice – Substitute cooked brown rice for extra fiber and a nutty flavor. Be sure it’s fully cooked and not too firm.

Swap the Soup – Use cream of chicken or cheddar soup in place of mushroom for a different flavor profile.

Make It Spicy – Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for heat.

Add More Veggies – Stir in corn, peas, or chopped spinach for color and nutrition.

Cheese Variety – Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend to switch up the flavor.

Make Ahead – Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5–10 minutes to bake time if cold.

Freezer Friendly – Freeze fully assembled (unbaked) or after baking. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This casserole is perfect for:

• Weeknight family dinners
• Potlucks or casual gatherings
• Make-ahead freezer meals
• Feeding a crowd on a budget

Pair with:

• Crisp green salad
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Roasted broccoli or green beans
• A light soup for a complete comfort meal

Nutritional & Health Notes

This casserole is:

• High in protein from ground beef and cheese
• A balanced meal when paired with vegetables
• Customizable for lower sodium (use low-sodium soup) or leaner versions

To lighten it up:

• Use 93% lean ground beef or ground turkey
• Substitute reduced-fat cheese and milk
• Use brown rice for more fiber and nutrients

FAQs

Can I use uncooked rice?
No. The rice must be fully cooked before adding to the casserole, or it won’t soften properly during baking.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version. Add extra seasoning for flavor.

Is this dish good for meal prep?
Yes. Portion it into containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.

Can I freeze cheesy ground beef casserole?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze before or after baking. Reheat from frozen or thaw first for best results.

What cheese melts best?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but a combo of mozzarella and Monterey Jack gives a smoother melt.

Can I use leftover rice?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for using up cold, cooked rice from the fridge.

Do I need to cover it while baking?
No. Bake uncovered so the cheese gets golden and bubbly on top.

Print