Hello friends, Chef André here!
If you’re looking for a cozy, no-fuss meal that everyone at the table will love, this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is exactly what you need.This recipe is one of those comforting classics that saves busy nights. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with hearty ground beef and rice, it’s made with simple pantry staples and baked into one satisfying casserole. In just 45 minutes, dinner is on the table—and the best part? No complicated steps and minimal cleanup.
What makes this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole truly special is how dependable it is. It’s filling, budget-friendly, easy to customize, and always a hit with kids and adults alike. This is the kind of recipe that quickly becomes a family tradition.
Why This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Is a Family Winner
This casserole checks all the right boxes for busy households:
- Simple & comforting, perfect for family dinners
- One-pan meal with beef, rice, and cheese
- Feeds a crowd – ideal for 8 servings
- Budget-friendly and pantry-based
- Great for leftovers & meal prep
It’s warm, creamy comfort food made easy.
Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1½ lbs ground beef
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups uncooked white rice
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Smart Substitutions by Chef André
- Ground turkey for a lighter version
- Brown rice (increase cooking time slightly)
- Cream of chicken soup instead of mushroom
- Mexican-blend cheese for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Preparation – Chef André Guides You
1. Brown the Beef
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Add garlic and ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Build the Casserole Base
Stir in rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, and oregano.
Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Assemble & Bake
Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly on top, and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Creative Variations by Chef André
Customize your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole with ease:
🌽 Veggie-Loaded Version
Add peas, corn, or diced carrots.
🌶 Tex-Mex Twist
Add taco seasoning and top with jalapeños.
🧀 Extra Creamy
Mix cheese directly into the casserole before baking.
🍄 Mushroom Lover’s
Add sautéed mushrooms with the beef.
Chef’s Tips for the Best Beef Rice Casserole
- Cover tightly while baking to cook rice evenly
- Season the beef well for deep flavor
- Let it rest before serving so it sets properly
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting
These simple tips guarantee perfect results.
What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole pairs well with:
- Simple green salad
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Garlic bread or dinner rolls
- Pickles or a light vinaigrette salad
It’s a complete meal all on its own.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze baked casserole up to 2 months
- Reheat: Oven at 350°F or microwave until warm
FAQ – Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use cooked rice?
Yes—reduce broth by half and shorten baking time.
Why is my rice undercooked?
Casserole wasn’t covered tightly enough.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Absolutely—mild, creamy, and very comforting.
Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~560 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Fat: 34 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
(Values vary based on cheese and beef used.)
Conclusion – Chef André’s Family Comfort Classic
This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the kind of recipe every family needs—easy, comforting, and reliable. With simple ingredients and big flavor, it takes the stress out of dinner and brings everyone together around the table.
If you try this recipe, leave a comment, rate it, and tell me how your family enjoyed it!
For safe handling and storage of ground beef, I always recommend USDA Food Safety:
Happy cooking,
Chef André 👨🍳