Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe Everyone Loves

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the kind of meal that brings the whole family running to the dinner table—even the picky eaters who normally give side-eye to anything not shaped like a chicken nugget. It’s comfort food at its best: cheesy, hearty, and ridiculously simple to make. With just 15 minutes of prep and pantry staples you’ve probably already got on hand, this casserole is your weeknight dinner superhero.

Whether you’re juggling homework help or just need something easy after a long day at work, this dish doesn’t just fill bellies—it saves sanity. And the best part? It’s one of those cozy meals that tastes like home, every single time.

Table of Contents

What is Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a classic American comfort food dish that combines browned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a creamy soup-based sauce, all tucked under a blanket of gooey melted cheddar. It’s the kind of recipe that’s been passed down in family kitchens and scribbled on recipe cards with “crowd favorite!” scrawled in the margins.

Often baked in a 9×13-inch dish and finished with a cheesy topping that gets irresistibly golden, it’s one-dish magic. This casserole is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any night when you want dinner to feel like a warm hug. Think of it as the casserole version of that cozy old sweatshirt you always reach for.

Reasons to Try Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Let’s be real—when dinner feels like just another chore on a never-ending list, Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole swoops in like the reliable best friend you didn’t know you needed. First, it’s ridiculously easy. No fancy steps, no obscure ingredients, just good ol’ dependable stuff like rice, beef, and cheese.

Second, it’s picky-eater approved (which feels like a miracle some days, right?). Third, it’s budget-friendly. We’re talking stretch-a-pound-of-beef-to-feed-six kind of meal. Oh, and leftovers? Even better the next day. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or just want to avoid another dinner debate, this casserole’s got your back.

Ingredients Needed to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked white rice
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
• ½ cup milk or beef broth
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide that breaks down exactly how to make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with zero confusion and all the flavor, you’re in the right place. This part is where the magic happens—where simple ingredients transform into a cozy, cheesy, can’t-stop-eating-it kind of dinner. Whether you’re new to casseroles or just need a reliable, detailed walkthrough, this step-by-step breakdown will make your cooking experience smooth and stress-free.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). You don’t want to forget this, because the oven needs to be nice and hot when the casserole goes in. Next, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a light spray with non-stick cooking spray or a quick swipe of butter. This keeps your casserole from sticking and makes cleanup way easier. If you’re into prepping ahead, this would be a great time to read up on freezer-friendly casseroles too.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion

In a large skillet (preferably nonstick or cast iron), cook 1 pound of lean ground beef and 1 small diced onion over medium heat. Break the beef apart with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and the onion is tender—this usually takes about 6–8 minutes. If there’s extra grease, carefully drain it off into a heatproof container or use a spoon to skim it away. This step not only adds flavor but builds the hearty base of your dish.

Looking for a ground beef alternative? Try this healthy hobo casserole with ground turkey for a lighter spin.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Once the beef is browned and the onions are soft, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—garlic goes from golden to bitter in a flash. This quick step adds a warm, savory layer to your casserole’s flavor profile.

If you’re out of garlic cloves, check out our list of easy garlic substitutes for pantry-friendly swaps.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce Separately

In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• 1 can (10.5 oz) of cream of mushroom soup (cream of chicken works too!)
• ½ cup milk or beef broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Whisk until smooth. The milk or broth helps thin the soup into a creamy sauce that coats everything evenly. For those avoiding canned soup, check out our guide to homemade soup substitutes that are just as creamy without the additives.

Step 5: Combine Rice, Beef, Sauce, and Cheese

In your greased baking dish, combine the following:

• 2 cups cooked white rice
• The cooked beef and onion mixture
• The sauce mixture you just whisked
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (save the other cup for topping)

Stir everything gently until it’s fully combined and coated in sauce. It should look creamy and well mixed, but not watery. This is the part where it starts to resemble a true comfort casserole. Not sure if your rice is the right kind? Learn the difference between types of rice for casseroles.

Step 6: Add the Final Layer of Cheese

Take the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle it evenly over the top. Don’t worry about perfection here—just aim for good coverage. This top layer creates that melty, golden crust that makes this dish irresistible. If you’re craving extra gooeyness, go ahead and mix in a handful of mozzarella or pepper jack for a little variety.

Step 7: Cover and Bake

Cover the casserole with aluminum foil. This helps it cook evenly and keeps the top layer from browning too quickly. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After that, remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.

Craving a crispy finish? Switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes—but stay close! Broiling goes fast and we’re aiming for toasty, not charred.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to set—this makes serving much cleaner (and keeps the roof of your mouth safe from molten cheese burns). Sprinkle chopped parsley on top if you’ve got it for a little color and freshness.

Scoop generous portions onto plates and serve warm. This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, pair it with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables for an easy upgrade.

What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Honestly, this casserole could stand on its own. But if you want to round things out or stretch the meal a bit, consider tossing together a simple green salad with your favorite dressing, or roasting up some broccoli or green beans. Garlic bread is always a hit too—especially for sopping up that extra cheesy goodness. For a lighter side, a cucumber-tomato salad with a little vinaigrette balances the richness nicely. If you’re packing lunches for the next day, throw in a side of fruit or a small handful of baby carrots to keep things fresh and fun.

Key Tips for Making Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

1. Use cooked rice – This recipe calls for pre-cooked rice. Day-old rice works great and helps soak up the sauce without getting mushy.
2. Don’t skip draining the beef – Excess grease can make the casserole too heavy.
3. Make it your own – Add frozen peas, chopped bell pepper, or a can of corn to sneak in veggies.
4. Cheese choice matters – Sharp cheddar gives bold flavor, but feel free to mix in mozzarella or pepper jack if you like a little kick.
5. Short on time? Pre-cooked rice packets (like jasmine or basmati) are total time-savers.
   This dish is all about flexibility and comfort, so don’t overthink it—just make it how your family likes it.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats like a champ! To warm up a single serving, pop it in the microwave for about 1–2 minutes, adding a splash of broth or milk if it looks a bit dry. For larger portions, cover with foil and bake at 325°F until heated through—usually 15–20 minutes. You can also freeze it. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and follow the baking instructions. It’s a meal prep dream.

FAQs

Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate up to a day ahead. When ready, bake as directed, adding 5 extra minutes.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes! Brown rice works great—just make sure it’s fully cooked before mixing in.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
You can sub in cream of chicken, or even make your own white sauce if you’re feeling ambitious.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Check your soup label—many canned soups contain gluten. Use a certified gluten-free version if needed.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Definitely. It’ll be a little lighter, but still super tasty.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is one of those recipes that becomes part of your regular rotation without even trying. It’s easy, flexible, and downright comforting—the dinner equivalent of cozy socks on a cold night. Whether you’re feeding your family, meal prepping, or just want something satisfying without a lot of fuss, this dish checks all the boxes. And hey, if you’re already dreaming of more one-dish wonders, you’ll love our Healthy French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole too.

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