1 Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite

Ever wondered how to transform simple pantry staples into a mouthwatering dinner that’ll have your family begging for seconds? The answer lies in this irresistible cheesy ground beef and rice casserole, a dish that combines creamy textures with savory flavors for the ultimate comfort food experience.

This easy beef and rice casserole is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a reliable, filling meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe that’s been tested and perfected for your family’s enjoyment.

Ingredients List

• 2 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 recommended)
• 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole comes together 30% faster than traditional casseroles, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Base

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions until the meat is no longer pink and onions are translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Step 2: Build the Flavors

Add minced garlic to the beef mixture and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. The aromatics will enhance the overall taste profile of your casserole.

Step 3: Combine Components

In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef mixture, uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated. Transfer to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove foil, top with shredded cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (1/8 of casserole):
Calories: 520
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 780mg

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Transform this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole into a lighter version with these modifications:

• Use cauliflower rice instead of white rice to reduce carbs
• Substitute ground turkey for beef to lower fat content
• Choose low-fat cheese and reduced-sodium soup
• Add extra vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your casserole experience with these complementary sides:

• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• Fresh garden salad
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Roasted vegetables

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t skip draining the beef – excess fat can make the casserole greasy
• Avoid removing the foil too early – the rice needs steam to cook properly
• Don’t rush the cheese melting process
• Remember to let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Keep your casserole fresh with these storage guidelines:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freeze portions for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating
• Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through

Conclusion

This hearty casserole brings together the best of comfort food – tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and plenty of melted cheese. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.

Ready to create this delicious meal? Give this recipe a try and share your experience in the comments below! Don’t forget to tag us in your social media posts with #ComfortFoodSuccess.

Getmeatrecipes.com comfort food with ground beef.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

A comforting and filling casserole that combines ground beef, rice, and cheese for a mouthwatering family dinner.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 520

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 recommended) This meat provides a good balance of flavor and fat.
• 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked Uncooked rice will absorb liquid during cooking.
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese For a bubbly topping.
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced Adds depth of flavor.
• 4 cups beef broth For moisture and flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Enhances savory flavor.
• 1 teaspoon paprika For color and flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions until the meat is no longer pink and onions are translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Drain excess fat.

Building the Flavors

1. Add minced garlic to the beef mixture and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Combining Components

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the beef mixture, uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth.
2. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Transfer to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.

Baking

1. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
2. Remove foil, top with shredded cheese, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

For lighter alternatives, consider using cauliflower rice instead of white rice, ground turkey for lower fat, and adding extra vegetables. Reheats well for leftovers.