Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole

Comfort food doesn’t get much better than a big, melty slice of this Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole. Simple, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful, this dish brings together tender rice, seasoned ground beef, creamy sauce, and a thick layer of melted cheddar cheese. It’s the kind of one-dish meal the whole family will request again and again. Ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or even make-ahead freezer meals, this casserole is hearty, filling, and pure home-cooked happiness. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare with just a handful of pantry staples!

📝 Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

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• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 cup uncooked white rice

• 2 cups beef broth or water (for cooking rice)

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• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for a twist)

• 1 cup milk

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• Optional: chopped parsley for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Rice:

   • In a saucepan, combine rice and beef broth (or water) and cook according to the package instructions.

   • Once cooked, fluff with a fork and set aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef:

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

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   • Drain excess grease.

   • Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened.

   • Stir in salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.

3. Make the Casserole Mixture:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, ground beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.

   • Mix everything together until well combined.

4. Assemble and Bake:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

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   • Pour the casserole mixture into the dish and spread evenly.

   • Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

   • Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

   • Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

5. Serve:

   • Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing.

   • Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.

🍽️ Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is the ultimate definition of easy comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of savory flavor in every bite. The best part? You can customize it with extra veggies like peas, bell peppers, or corn—or even swap the beef for ground turkey or sausage. Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping or next-day lunches. It’s the kind of dish that feeds a crowd, warms the soul, and satisfies the appetite. One bite, and you’ll know exactly why it’s a classic favorite!