Delicious Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe

Jump to Recipe

Cheesy Ground Beef Rice is a comforting and hearty dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. This delightful casserole is filled with savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a rich cheesy sauce that makes it irresistible. From the moment you take it out of the oven, the delicious aroma fills your kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in. This dish is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice casserole is a true crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Second, it combines protein, carbs, and cheese, creating a balanced meal in one dish. Third, it’s a budget-friendly option that stretches ingredients to feed a family. Fourth, you can customize it with your favorite vegetables, making it a versatile recipe. Additionally, it’s a great way to use leftovers, and it reheats well, perfect for meal prep. Finally, this dish is a comforting favorite that brings back nostalgic memories and is sure to become a family staple. You might also enjoy variations like Cheesy Beef Rice Bake or Cheesy One-Pot Ground Beef Rice. You can find more delicious recipes like Hearty Beef Shepherd’s Pie or Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice

Gather these items:

1 lb. ground beef, 85% lean
1.5 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
3 Tablespoons butter, divided
¾ cup onions, diced
1 Tablespoon garlic, minced
2 ½ cups beef broth
1 ¼ cups uncooked white long grain rice
8 oz. sliced button mushrooms, washed
10.5 oz. cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk, any kind
½ cup sour cream
2 cups cheddar cheese, divided

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F.
Step 2: Cook the ground beef in a skillet until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the ground beef. Stir well.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter, then sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until softened.
Step 5: Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
Step 6: In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream. Stir until well combined.
Step 7: Add the cooked ground beef mixture to the rice mixture and stir.
Step 8: Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 9: Top with cheddar cheese.
Step 10: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Ground Beef Rice

Keep these in mind:

Use lean ground beef for a healthier dish.
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for extra nutrition and flavor.
For a creamier texture, add more sour cream or use cream cheese.
Using a mix of cheeses can add depth to the flavor.
This dish is best served hot right out of the oven to enjoy the gooey cheese.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Rice

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice is fantastic on its own, but you can enhance it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread on the side. You could also serve it with a dollop of salsa or guacamole for a fun twist. If you’re looking for a heartier meal, pair it with a side of roasted vegetables or a warm corn casserole. For more side ideas, check out Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta or Cheesy Baked Chicken Broccoli Alfredo Pasta.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Ground Beef Rice

To store leftovers, allow the Cheesy Ground Beef Rice to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or reheat in the oven until warm. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made in advance and enjoyed throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ground Beef Rice

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Ground Beef Rice?

The secret lies in cooking the beef to the right texture and allowing the flavors from the seasonings and cheese to meld together during baking. Also, don’t skimp on cheese!

Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance and keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Ground Beef Rice?

One common mistake is overcooking the beef. Make sure to only brown it before mixing it with the rice. Also, ensure that you don’t skip the moisture ingredients like beef broth and sour cream to keep it from drying out.

Variations of Cheesy Ground Beef Rice You Can Try

There are many fun variations of this recipe. Consider adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini for a Cheesy Ground Beef Rice with Vegetables. For a healthier option, you can substitute the beef with turkey or use brown rice instead of white. Another option is to create a Cheesy Beef and Rice Skillet Meal for a quicker, one-pan version that cooks on the stove. Enjoy experimenting with flavors!