Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

If you’re looking for a satisfying, hearty meal that the whole family will love, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is just the ticket. With seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and lots of melted cheese, it’s the perfect dish to bring comfort to your table. This recipe is easy to make and ideal for meal prep, busy weeknights, or even as a potluck favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked rice (or use leftover cooked rice)
• 2 cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 can (10 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (or any cream soup)
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Break it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.

3. Cook the Rice:

If you’re using uncooked rice, add the rice and beef broth (or water) to a pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. If you’re using leftover cooked rice, you can skip this step.

4. Combine Ingredients:

In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, ground beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the sour cream until everything is well mixed.

5. Assemble the Casserole:

Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Bake:

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden finish, you can broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to avoid burning.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Tips

• Rice Substitutions: You can use any type of rice for this recipe, including brown rice or wild rice. Just adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly. You can also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to mix up the cheese! Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Colby cheese all work well in this casserole.
• Add Veggies: To boost the nutrition and flavor, add some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the ground beef mixture before combining it with the rice.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

For a low-carb version, you can substitute the rice with cauliflower rice. This will keep the casserole hearty while drastically reducing the carbohydrate content. Be sure to use a low-carb soup or make your own cream sauce with heavy cream and broth to replace the condensed soup.

Recipe Variations

• Taco Casserole: Add taco seasoning to the ground beef and rice mixture and stir in black beans and corn for a Tex-Mex twist. Top with salsa, sour cream, and jalapeños before serving.
• Chicken and Rice Casserole: Swap out the ground beef for cooked shredded chicken for a lighter variation of this comforting dish.
• Vegetarian Casserole: Use a plant-based ground beef substitute and vegetable broth to make a vegetarian-friendly version of this casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it, unbaked, for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve it, bake it according to the instructions, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, this casserole freezes well! After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

4. Can I use different meats?

Absolutely! This casserole works well with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even sausage for a slightly different flavor profile.

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal or meal prepping. With its cheesy, savory flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with so many variations, you can easily customize it to fit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy this comforting casserole with a fresh salad or roasted veggies on the side!