Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole – A Cozy Family Favorite
If comfort had a flavor, it would taste exactly like this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole — warm, hearty, and just a little nostalgic. This dish takes all the classic elements of a homestyle casserole — tender beef, fluffy rice, creamy sauce, and plenty of melted cheese — and brings them together in one easy-to-love meal.
It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with irresistible smells and calls everyone to the table before you’ve even set out the plates. Whether you’re cooking for a family of four or prepping leftovers for busy weekdays, this casserole is as dependable as it is delicious.
There’s beauty in simplicity, and this recipe proves it. Using affordable pantry staples like rice, ground beef, and a can of soup, you can create a meal that’s rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying — all without a lot of effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup sour cream or milk
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the rice: Prepare rice according to package directions if not already cooked. Set aside.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
- Add aromatics: Stir in diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add seasonings: Sprinkle in paprika, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl (or in the skillet if it’s oven-safe), mix the cooked beef mixture with cooked rice, diced tomatoes, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup of cheese.
- Transfer to casserole dish: Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly, and cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Tips & Tricks
- Make it creamy: Substitute sour cream with cream cheese for a richer texture.
- Add veggies: Mix in peas, corn, or bell peppers to make it a one-dish meal.
- Shortcut: Use leftover rice or microwave rice packets to cut prep time.
- Crispy topping: Add crushed Ritz crackers or breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy layer.
Variations
- Mexican-Style Casserole: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and top with pepper jack cheese.
- Italian Twist: Swap cheddar for mozzarella and stir in marinara sauce instead of cream soup.
- Spicy Version: Mix in diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
- Healthier Option: Use ground turkey or chicken and brown rice instead of white rice.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook rice according to package directions.
- Brown ground beef in a skillet; drain excess fat.
- Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in seasonings, diced tomatoes, soup, sour cream, rice, and cheese.
- Spread mixture into baking dish; top with extra cheese.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve with warm dinner rolls or garlic bread for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
- For a complete comfort meal, enjoy with a side of buttery corn or green beans.
Storage Information
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
FAQ
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Can I use brown rice or wild rice? Absolutely — just ensure it’s fully cooked before mixing.
- Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, 2–3 chopped fresh tomatoes will work.
- What cheese works best? Sharp cheddar gives the boldest flavor, but Monterey Jack or Colby blend beautifully too.
History / Fun Facts
The classic ground beef and rice casserole has deep roots in American home cooking — a dish born out of practicality and comfort. In the mid-20th century, when canned soups became pantry staples, creative home cooks started combining them with rice and meat to make easy, satisfying dinners that could feed a family on a budget.
Casseroles like this one became a fixture at church potlucks and weeknight dinners alike. They’re the kind of dishes that never go out of style — a warm reminder of home-cooked love, simplicity, and the power of melted cheese to bring people together.
Today, the cheesy ground beef and rice casserole continues to evolve — from healthier modern takes to bold global flavors — but its soul remains the same: a cozy, filling dish that always hits the spot.
