Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Name: Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole That Everyone Will Love!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on January 21, 2026

DINNER

Difficulty

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Introduction to Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I absolutely adore my Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug after a long day. With its comforting blend of flavors and gooey cheese, it’s sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, it’s a quick solution for those hectic evenings when you need something hearty and satisfying. Trust me, this casserole will become a family favorite in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a lifesaver for busy nights. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just an hour from start to finish. The combination of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll love how it brings the family together around the dinner table!

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Beef: The star of the show! I prefer lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to use ground turkey if you want to lighten things up.
Uncooked Rice: This is the base of the casserole. I usually go for long-grain white rice, but brown rice can add a nutty flavor and extra fiber.
Beef Broth: This adds depth and richness to the dish. You can use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creamy goodness binds everything together and adds a lovely texture. If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you can use cream of chicken soup instead.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The gooey, melty topping that makes this casserole irresistible! I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to mix in your favorite cheese.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A convenient way to sneak in some veggies! You can use any combination you like, such as peas, carrots, and corn.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor! It adds a warm, aromatic touch without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Onion Powder: This enhances the savory notes of the dish. If you prefer fresh onions, sauté them with the beef instead.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste, but remember that the broth and soup already contain some salt.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal that your family will love!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even cooking. You want that casserole to bake perfectly, not just warm up in a cold oven!

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Look for a nice brown color, which means it’s fully cooked. This step adds flavor and texture to your casserole.

Step 3: Season the Beef

Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat. Then, sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Seasoning the beef is essential; it’s where the flavor starts to build!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now, it’s time to mix things up! Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined. This mixture is the heart of your casserole!

Step 5: Transfer to Casserole Dish

Carefully transfer the mixture into a greased casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, it helps the casserole cook evenly!

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Covering the dish helps trap steam, which cooks the rice perfectly and keeps everything moist.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Bake Again

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. This is the moment we’ve all been waiting for! Bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. That golden, gooey cheese is what makes this casserole truly irresistible!

Tips for Success

Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to your preference.
Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef.
Use a non-stick spray for easy cleanup of your casserole dish.
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices!

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet works wonders, but any large pan will do.
Casserole Dish: A 9×13 inch dish is ideal, but you can use any oven-safe dish.
Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps with mixing and transferring ingredients.
Aluminum Foil: Essential for covering the dish while baking.
Measuring Cups: Handy for measuring rice and broth, but you can eyeball it if you’re confident!

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for lentils or black beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Cheese Lovers: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness.
Low-Carb Version: Substitute cauliflower rice for the regular rice to cut down on carbs.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve with garlic bread to soak up all that cheesy goodness.
A glass of chilled iced tea or lemonade complements the meal perfectly.
For a pop of color, garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving.
Consider a side of steamed broccoli for added nutrition!

FAQs about Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

As you embark on your culinary adventure with this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers!

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just cover it tightly with foil. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

If mushrooms aren’t your thing, you can easily swap it for cream of chicken soup or even a homemade white sauce. Both options will keep that creamy texture intact!

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can add extra flavor and nutrition to your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole.

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The joy of watching my family dig in, their faces lighting up with delight, is priceless. This dish brings comfort and warmth, making even the busiest days feel special. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while keeping everyone satisfied. I hope this casserole becomes a cherished recipe in your home, just as it has in mine. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with laughter and love!