Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

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If you’re looking for an easy dinner idea that’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and loaded with rich, savory flavor, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the answer. Perfect for busy weeknights, this one-dish meal brings together tender ground beef

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: Ideal for busy families and weeknight dinners.

• One Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum satisfaction.

• High Protein & Filling: Great for growing kids and hungry adults.

• Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples.

• Kid-Approved: Cheesy, creamy, and totally crave-worthy.

Ingredients Breakdown:

• Ground Beef (1½ lbs): Provides a rich, meaty base and protein for the casserole.

• Cooked White Rice (2 cups): Adds a soft, starchy texture to balance the beef and soak up the creamy sauce.

• Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can): Acts as the creamy binder, adding flavor and moisture.

• Milk (½ cup): Thins out the soup for a smoother, more even consistency.

• Cheddar Cheese (1½ cups, divided): Adds bold, cheesy flavor throughout and a gooey, golden topping.

• Worcestershire Sauce (1 tsp): Deepens the savory, umami notes in the dish.

• Garlic Powder (¼ tsp) & Onion Powder (¼ tsp): Enhance the overall flavor profile without overpowering.

• Salt & Pepper (to taste): Classic seasoning to bring everything together.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use Leftover Rice: Cold rice from the night before works great.

• Add Vegetables: Stir in cooked mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers.

• Make It Creamier: Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese.

• Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne or chopped jalapeños for heat.

Variations and Customizations:

1. Mexican-Style Casserole:

   • Add taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and pepper jack cheese.

2. Low-Carb Option:

   • Substitute rice with cauliflower rice to reduce carbs.

3. Vegetarian Version:

   • Replace ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles.

4. Gluten-Free:

   • Use a gluten-free condensed soup alternative.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Side Dishes:

  • Garden salad with vinaigrette

  • Steamed broccoli or green beans

  • Garlic bread or dinner rolls

• Drinks:

  • Iced tea, lemonade, or a bold red wine

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheat: Microwave individual portions or bake at 350°F until warm.

Popular Questions:

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Bake when ready to serve.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is ideal, but you can also use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Absolutely. Use a larger baking dish or divide between two 9×13 pans.

Is it possible to make this dairy-free?

Yes. Use a plant-based condensed soup, dairy-free milk, and vegan cheese alternatives.

Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, creamy, and full of flavor. Tender ground beef, fluffy white rice, and melty cheddar cheese come together in a savory cream of mushroom base, seasoned to perfection. It’s easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners, and guaranteed to satisfy hungry appetites.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ pounds lean ground beef

• 2 cups cooked white rice

• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup

• ½ cup milk

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

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2. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat:

• Cook ground beef until browned and no longer pink.

• Drain excess grease to avoid a greasy casserole.

3. Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:

• Add cooked ground beef, white rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

• Stir until fully combined.

4. Assemble the Casserole

• Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

• Spread evenly and top with remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese.

5. Bake

• Bake for 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and casserole is hot and bubbly.

6. Serve

• Let sit for 5 minutes before serving for best texture.

Notes

• For added flavor depth, sauté onions or garlic with the ground beef.

• Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving helps it firm up and slice cleanly.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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