If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole! This dish is creamy, cheesy, and exploding with flavor—all in one satisfying pan. Imagine sitting down to a meal that fills your home with the delightful aroma of seasoned beef and melted cheese. My family often gathers around this delicious casserole, and it never fails to bring smiles and satisfied bellies!
What makes this recipe extra special is how quick and easy it is to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Busy like a Friday evening when you have both work and weekend plans! If you’ve tried my famous Chicken Alfredo before, you’ll notice this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole has a similar delightful comfort factor. So grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up a dish that everyone will love!
What is Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole?
Now, you might be wondering, what exactly is Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole? Well, let’s put it this way—it’s a hearty, one-pan wonder that combines ground beef, rice, creamy soups, and plenty of cheese into a delicious meal! What’s not to love? You can think of it as your reliable friend in the kitchen, always coming through when you need a filling dinner without the fuss. After all, as they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” So why not win over your family or friends with this delightful dish? Trust me; you won’t want to miss out!
Why You’ll Love This
You may be asking yourself, why should I love Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole? Let me count the ways! First, the star of the show is the delightful creaminess—it’s like a warm hug on a cold day! Next, let’s talk about the cost-saving benefits. Making this dish at home saves you from pricey takeout while using ingredients you likely have in your pantry. And let’s not forget the flavor! Topped with ooey-gooey melted cheddar cheese, each bite transports you to cheesy bliss.
If you’ve enjoyed my Easy Taco Casserole in the past, you’ll definitely want to add this recipe to your go-to list. So, roll up your sleeves and give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Quick Overview
Making Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is as simple as it is delicious! With only a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can whip up this savory dish in about an hour. It’s creamy, flavorful, and best of all—satisfying! Perfect for those busy nights when you just need something easy yet packed with taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or use cooked for quicker prep)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step
- Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole cooks evenly.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion until the meat is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion with the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until well mixed.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour this mixture into a greased 9×13″ baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Add Cheese: After the initial baking time, remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 5–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, add fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
What to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole With
To complete this hearty meal, consider serving it with a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the casserole. Maybe add some garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up all that creamy goodness! For beverages, a chilled iced tea or lemonade pairs nicely and refreshes the palate.
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Meat Options: You can easily swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
- Rice Variations: If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked rice to cut down on baking time.
- Seasoning: Feel free to get creative with your seasonings! Adding some spice with chili powder or paprika can give it an extra kick.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, place any uneaten Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm, and consider adding a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture while reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor.
What if I don’t have beef broth?
You can substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth if you want a lighter dish.
How do I know when it’s done?
The casserole is done when the rice is fully cooked and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table! With its creamy goodness and simple preparation, it’s the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or family gatherings. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (or use cooked for quicker prep)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion. Drain any excess fat.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef and onion with uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, beef broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9x13" baking dish and spread evenly.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Remove foil, top with cheddar cheese, and bake uncovered for 5–10 more minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
To save time, use pre-cooked rice and reduce baking time. Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze up to 2 months.
