There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a home-cooked meal to bring everyone together, and this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole does just that. The moment you pull this bubbling delight from the oven, the rich aroma of melted cheese and savory beef fills the room, instantly creating a sense of comfort. I discovered this recipe during one of those busy weeknights when I needed an easy solution to feed my family without sacrificing flavor.

With its creamy texture and bold taste, this dish caters to even the pickiest eaters at the table, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it relies on simple pantry staples, which means you can whip it up in no time—even on a hectic day. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a satisfying dinner option that requires minimal effort, this casserole ticks all the boxes. Join me in creating this family favorite that’s bound to make your dinner table shine!

Why will you love this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice?

Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together with minimal effort and basic cooking skills, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Comforting Flavors: The creamy, cheesy goodness and seasoned beef create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Family Approved: Even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds, making mealtime a breeze.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute proteins or add veggies, ensuring it fits your family’s taste preferences perfectly.
Make Ahead Option: Prep this casserole a day in advance and simply pop it in the oven when ready.
One-Dish Wonder: No need for extra pots and pans; everything cooks together in one baking dish, simplifying cleanup.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to create this delicious casserole.

For the Casserole

Lean Ground Beef – Provides protein and flavor; choose 85% or 90% lean to minimize greasiness.
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth; yellow or white onions work best for flavor.
Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can be a handy substitute in a pinch.
Cooked White Rice – Acts as the comforting base of the casserole; about 1 cup uncooked translates to 2 cups cooked.
Cream of Mushroom Soup – Adds creaminess and umami flavor; substitute with cream of chicken soup for a twist.
Milk or Beef Broth – Thins the soup for a creamier texture; use milk for richness or broth for added flavor.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese – The key cheesy component; feel free to mix in Monterey Jack for a unique meltiness.
Paprika – Provides mild smokiness and color; smoked paprika can add an extra layer of flavor.
Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste based on broths or soups used.

For Topping

Additional Shredded Cheese – Top with more cheese for a luscious, bubbly finish; fresh cheese melts better for that ultimate topping experience.
Chopped Parsley (optional) – Adds a pop of color and freshness; a lovely garnish to elevate your casserole.

Now you’re all set to dive into baking this comforting Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice casserole that will surely become a family favorite!

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole gets that golden, bubbly finish while preventing it from sticking!
Cook the ground beef and diced onion in a skillet over medium heat until the beef is nicely browned and the onion is softened—about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep your casserole creamy!
Add the minced garlic to the beef mixture and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, infusing the dish with a delightful aroma that will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.
Mix together the cream of mushroom soup, milk (or broth), paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth. This creates the luscious sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
Combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, and half the shredded cheese in the baking dish. Pour the sauce over the top and give it a good mix to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Top with the remaining cheese, cover the dish with foil, and bake for 20 minutes. This helps the cheese melt evenly and makes for a gooey, cheesy center.
Uncover the casserole and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, creating that irresistible crust we all love.
Broil for 2 minutes if you desire a crispy, caramelized cheese topping. Keep an eye on it—things can go from bubbly to burnt quickly under the broiler!
Serve garnished with chopped parsley, if desired, for that extra touch of freshness and color that makes this dish pop.

Optional: Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through for best results.
Freezer: Wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container, for freezing up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To regain creaminess, add a splash of milk or broth while reheating. Bake in the oven until bubbly for optimal texture.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the casserole out for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage and ensure safety.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance by preparing all the components—cook the beef and onion, mix in the garlic, and combine the rice, soup, and spices. Once everything is mixed in your baking dish, simply cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely. This method maintains the casserole’s creamy texture and cheesy goodness, so each bite will be just as delightful as if it were made fresh!

What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Create a delightful family meal that leaves no one hungry with these delectable pairings.

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with vibrant greens and a zesty vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the casserole and adds a refreshing crunch.
Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy casserole, making every bite an experience filled with flavor.
Steamed Broccoli: Tender, steamed broccoli not only adds a pop of color to your plate but also brings a nutritious element that pairs well with the cheesy goodness.
Roasted Vegetables: Earthy roasted carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers provide a warm contrast to the casserole’s creamy texture and infuse the meal with hearty vegetables.
Sweet Corn: Serve some sweet corn on the side for a pop of sweetness to balance the savory flavors of the casserole.
Fruit Salad: A light, fruity salad acts as a refreshing palate cleanser, providing a burst of sweetness that complements the rich dish beautifully.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp adds a sweet, comforting end to the meal, rounding out the experience perfectly. The autumn spices in the crisp echo the cozy vibes of the casserole.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Variations

Feel free to sprinkle your personal touch on this casserole to make it even more delightful!

Turkey Upgrade: Swap lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter meal without sacrificing flavor.
Cheese Bliss: Experiment with different cheese blends, like pepper jack for spice or fontina for a gourmet touch. Different cheeses bring unique flavors that can tantalize your taste buds.
Veggie Boost: Add frozen peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and a pop of color in your dish. These veggies add crunch and sweetness, enhancing the overall appeal of the casserole.
Spicy Kick: Stir in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a flavorful heat that excites your palate. Spice lovers will appreciate this bold twist!
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like oregano or thyme to add an aromatic herbaceous quality that brings freshness to the casserole. A touch of greenery brightens the whole dish!
Rice Variations: Switch cooked white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a heartier base packed with fiber. These alternatives offer a unique twist while keeping things nutritious.
Creamy Alternatives: Substitute cream of mushroom soup with a homemade white sauce or a dairy-free version to accommodate special dietary needs. A creamy alternative can elevate the flavors and accommodate diverse tastes.

Expert Tips for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice

Use Leftover Rice: Ensure your rice is cooked beforehand, as leftover rice prevents the casserole from becoming mushy and maintains a pleasant texture.
Prep Ahead: You can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. This is perfect for busy evenings when you want to minimize cooking time.
Fresh Cheese Matters: Use fresh shredded cheese for the best melting and flavor; pre-packaged cheese can sometimes contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Customize it: Don’t hesitate to add in your favorite vegetables, such as frozen peas or diced bell peppers, to boost nutrition without compromising the comforting essence of the Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice casserole.
Check Consistency: If you prefer a thicker casserole, consider reducing the amount of broth or milk slightly to achieve the desired creaminess without it being too soupy.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe FAQs

What kind of ground beef should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using 85% or 90% lean ground beef. This provides a nice balance of flavor without being overly greasy. Using lean beef ensures your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole stays comforting yet not too heavy.

How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole! To do this, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for optimal flavor and texture.

What if my casserole is too soupy?
If your casserole turns out too soupy, don’t worry! It may be due to adding too much liquid or not using leftover rice, which helps absorb excess moisture. To remedy this, consider adding a bit more cooked rice or letting it bake a bit longer uncovered to thicken. For next time, aim to keep the ratios in check while measuring liquids.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, ensure to check the labels of your canned soup for potential allergens like gluten or dairy. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup. Always consider your guests’ dietary needs when preparing meals!

Can I use other ingredients in the casserole?
The more the merrier! You can easily customize this casserole. For a lighter option, try substituting ground turkey or chicken. Plus, feel free to toss in some frozen peas, corn, or diced bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. The possibilities are endless with this comfort food classic!