Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

 

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole – A Comfort Food Classic

There’s something truly magical about a Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole — it’s the kind of dish that fills your home with warmth, comfort, and irresistible aroma. Imagine layers of tender rice, juicy ground beef, and melted cheese coming together in one bubbling, golden-brown masterpiece. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or craving a cozy, hearty dinner after a long day, this casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

This recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying, making it a weeknight hero. Every bite offers the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and savory beefy flavor — it’s the definition of comfort food done right.

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🧀 Ingredients (and Why They Matter)

• 1 lb ground beef – The heart of this dish, providing rich, savory flavor and satisfying protein.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked) – Absorbs all the delicious flavors as it cooks, creating a hearty base.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds depth and a subtle sweetness to balance the richness of the beef.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the casserole with aromatic flavor that enhances every bite.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup – Brings a creamy texture and earthy flavor that ties everything together.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – Adds smooth, rich creaminess and a comforting taste.
• 1 ½ cups beef broth – Helps cook the rice perfectly while adding robust, meaty undertones.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided) – Melts beautifully for a gooey, golden topping and creamy interior.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Deepens the flavor with a hint of tangy richness.
• 1 tsp salt & ½ tsp black pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional) – Adds a smoky kick and gorgeous color.
• 2 tbsp butter – Ensures a rich, luscious finish and prevents sticking.

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🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and crumbly. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well until creamy and smooth.
5. Add the uncooked rice, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir everything together so the rice is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to trap in moisture.
7. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
8. Remove the foil and sprinkle 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return to the oven, uncovered, for 10 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. The casserole will set slightly as it cools, making it easier to slice and serve.

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❤️ Why Everyone Loves This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Everything bakes in a single dish — less cleanup, more time to relax.
• Creamy, cheesy comfort: Every forkful bursts with rich, melty flavor that keeps you coming back for seconds.
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters can’t resist this cozy, crowd-pleasing casserole.
• Make-ahead magic: Perfect for meal prepping — it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

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💡 Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• Use freshly grated cheese for the creamiest melt — pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Don’t skip covering with foil during baking; it helps the rice cook evenly and stay tender.
• Add veggies! Stir in peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
• Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Colby for unique flavor twists.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with:

• A crisp green salad for freshness.
• Warm garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.

It’s the ultimate comfort food combo that turns an ordinary dinner into something extraordinary.

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✨ Conclusion: Simple, Hearty, and Absolutely Delicious

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something spectacular. With its creamy texture, gooey cheese, and savory beef flavor, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table smiling. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe guarantees comfort, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite.

Once you make it, it’ll become a family favorite — the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to again and again. So grab your casserole dish and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s simple, soul-warming, and downright irresistible.