Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a classic, comforting dinner that brings together simple ingredients in one warm, satisfying dish. Tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and plenty of melted cheese bake together into a creamy casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep.
This recipe is loved because it’s affordable, filling, and incredibly easy to make. Everything comes together in a single baking dish, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy dinner. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want dependable leftovers, this casserole always delivers.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- One-dish meal with minimal cleanup
- Rich, cheesy, comforting flavor
- Uses budget-friendly ingredients
- Family-friendly and kid-approved
- Perfect for leftovers and meal prep
- Easy to customize with add-ins
Why You Should Try This Recipe
A Complete, Filling Meal
This casserole includes protein, rice, and cheese, making it hearty enough to serve on its own. As a result, you don’t need many side dishes to make it satisfying.
Perfect for Busy Nights
Because everything bakes together, this recipe saves time. In addition, it’s easy to prep ahead and bake when you’re ready.
Great for Leftovers
In fact, the flavors deepen after resting. Therefore, leftovers taste just as good—if not better—the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground beef
- Cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- Onion, diced
- Garlic, minced
- Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup
- Beef broth or water
- Shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika or Italian seasoning (optional)
- Fresh parsley (optional garnish)
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole (Step by Step)
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2: Cook the ground beef
In a skillet over medium heat, add oil or butter. Cook the ground beef with diced onion until browned. Drain excess grease, then add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Step 3: Mix the filling
In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, cooked rice, soup, broth, salt, pepper, and seasoning. Stir until evenly mixed.
Step 4: Assemble the casserole
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Add cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the top.
Step 6: Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Rest and serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish if desired.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 420–520
- Protein: 22–28g
- Carbohydrates: 35–40g
- Fat: 22–28g
- Fiber: 2–4g
- Sodium: Moderate
Tips for the Best Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Use fully cooked rice to avoid a crunchy texture
- Drain beef well to prevent greasiness
- Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting
- Don’t overbake or the casserole may dry out
- Let it rest before serving so it sets properly
Variations & Substitutions
- Add corn or peas for extra texture
- Use ground turkey instead of beef
- Swap cheddar for Colby Jack or mozzarella
- Add diced tomatoes for extra moisture
- Make it spicy with chili flakes or jalapeños
- Use brown rice for extra fiber
What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Simple green salad
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Roasted vegetables
- Coleslaw
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using uncooked rice
- Skipping draining the beef
- Adding too much liquid
- Overbaking until dry
- Cutting immediately without resting
Storing & Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container
- Refrigerate up to 4 days
- Reheat gently in the oven or microwave
- Add a splash of broth when reheating
- Freeze for up to 2 months
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a dependable, comforting recipe that works for real life. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with cheesy goodness. Whether you’re feeding a family or planning meals ahead, this casserole is one you’ll keep coming back to.
General Information
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
- Total Time: About 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Casserole