This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Easy to make with simple ingredients. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck!
Introduction
If you’re looking for a simple yet satisfying meal, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole will hit the spot. It’s the perfect comfort food for a cozy dinner or a family gathering. With its gooey cheese, seasoned ground beef, and fluffy rice, this casserole checks all the boxes for a hearty meal. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this dish is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort. Plus, casseroles are perfect for leftovers, and this one tastes even better the next day! With a combination of savory beef, tender rice, and melty cheese, this dish delivers an irresistible flavor that your whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and uncooked rice. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, and serve hot.
How to Prepare
Start by browning the ground beef with onions and garlic, enhancing the flavors with simple seasonings like paprika, salt, and pepper. Once your beef is fully cooked, you’ll mix it with beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and uncooked rice. This allows the rice to absorb all the rich flavors while baking. After transferring everything into a baking dish, cover it with foil to keep in moisture while the rice cooks. In the final step, add cheddar cheese on top and bake until it melts, giving you that beautiful golden crust that makes casseroles so irresistible.
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
Servings
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
FAQs
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and possibly add more liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the casserole, cover, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You might need to add 10-15 extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
A: You can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup if you prefer. They will provide a slightly different flavor but will work just as well.
Q: How can I make this dish more flavorful?
A: Add spices like cumin, chili powder, or even some diced tomatoes and green chilies for a kick. You can also top it with sour cream before serving.
Q: Is it possible to freeze this casserole?
A: Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a lifesaver when you’re short on time but still crave a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s incredibly versatile and can be customized with different ingredients to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a meal prep option that works for the week, this casserole is the perfect solution. The creamy texture of the cheese paired with the savory beef and tender rice is a winning combination. Make this casserole once, and it’ll quickly become a family favorite that you’ll turn to again and again. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to the table!
