Name: Cheesy Ground Beef And Rice Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup canned diced tomatoes; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp salt; ¼ tsp black pepper

There’s something so comforting about a warm, bubbling Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole fresh out of the oven. With its hearty layers of seasoned beef, tender rice, and a gooey blanket of melted cheese, this dish is a surefire family favorite.

I first discovered this recipe on a cold weeknight when I needed to whip up something quick, affordable, and satisfying. It has since become my go-to for potlucks, meal prep, and busy evenings when I need something easy yet delicious. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your weekly rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Prepare to fall in love with the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and practicality. This casserole checks all the boxes for a crowd-pleasing dinner.

First, this recipe is incredibly easy to make. With only a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can have it prepped and baking in no time. No complicated steps or fancy techniques here—just straightforward cooking that delivers big results.

It’s also budget-friendly, which is always a win. Ground beef and rice are affordable and filling, making this dish an economical choice that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Another reason to love this casserole? It’s a complete meal in one dish. With protein, grains, and even veggies (hello, bell peppers and onions!), you’ve got a well-rounded dinner that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.

Lastly, it’s perfect for leftovers and meal prep. Reheat it for lunch the next day or portion it out for a week of stress-free meals. It tastes just as good (if not better!) after a day in the fridge.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in making this dish a standout.

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) for the best balance of flavor and minimal grease. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Rice: Long-grain white rice is the best choice for this recipe. It cooks up fluffy and absorbs the flavors beautifully. Brown rice is a good alternative but will need a longer cooking time.

Onions and Bell Peppers: These aromatic vegetables bring sweetness and depth to the dish. Use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for a pop of color.

Cheese: Shredded cheddar is a classic choice, but you can mix it up with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a spicy pepper jack for a little kick.

Tomato Sauce: This adds moisture and ties the flavors together. You can substitute crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce if needed.

Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder, paprika, and a hint of cumin adds warmth and depth. Adjust the spices to suit your taste.

Special Equipment: A large skillet for browning the beef and a 9x13-inch baking dish for assembling the casserole.

How To Make This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Making this casserole is as easy as it is delicious. Here’s how to bring it all together:

Start by cooking your rice. While the rice simmers, preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease and transfer the beef to a plate.

In the same skillet, sauté your onions and bell peppers until soft and fragrant. Add a sprinkle of salt to help them release their moisture.

Return the beef to the skillet and stir in the tomato sauce, seasonings, and cooked rice. Mix everything until evenly combined. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish. Top it generously with shredded cheese, spreading it evenly across the surface.

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden around the edges. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Storage Options

This casserole is a fantastic make-ahead meal that stores beautifully.

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Freezer: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole up to the baking step and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Protein: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
Rice: Try quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
Vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients. Simply sauté them with the onions and peppers.
Spices: Turn up the heat with chili powder or cayenne, or give it a smoky flavor with chipotle seasoning.
Toppings: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Experimenting with these variations is half the fun—feel free to get creative!

Enjoy this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete, satisfying meal. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection. Let me know how it turns out for you!