Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food hearty, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and melty cheddar cheese creates a delicious one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Plus, it’s super easy to make and uses ingredients you likely already have in your pantry!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have this meal ready to go in no time.
• Cheesy Goodness: This casserole is loaded with melty cheddar cheese, making each bite rich and indulgent.
• One-Pot Meal: Everything cooks together, so you won’t be left with a mountain of dishes to clean up afterward.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

For the Casserole:

• 1 pound ground beef: A hearty base for this casserole that pairs perfectly with the cheese and rice.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds a sweet, savory flavor to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the flavor with a bit of pungency.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked): This cooks directly in the casserole, soaking up all the beefy goodness.
• 2 cups beef broth: Adds flavor and helps the rice cook perfectly.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained: Brings a juicy, tangy element to balance the richness.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A flavorful blend of herbs that brings a subtle hint of warmth to the dish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the show! Melty cheddar adds that irresistible cheesy topping.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang, making the casserole rich and comforting.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This will help prevent the casserole from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef, 1 diced onion, and 2 minced garlic cloves over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain off any excess fat.

Step 3: Cook the Rice Mixture

After browning the beef, stir in 1 cup of uncooked long-grain white rice, 2 cups of beef broth, 1 can of drained diced tomatoes, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. You want the rice to be fully cooked and the liquid absorbed.

Tip: Check the rice after 15 minutes to make sure it’s not overcooked. If the liquid is absorbed but the rice is still a bit undercooked, add a splash of water or broth and continue simmering.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Sour Cream

Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and stir in ½ cup sour cream and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. This step makes the casserole creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible.

Step 5: Transfer to the Baking Dish

Spoon the beef and rice mixture into your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, making sure to cover the entire surface.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden, and the cheese is perfectly gooey.

Optional: For an extra-crispy cheesy top, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out hearty portions and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness!

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Sour Cream: It adds a delicious tang and creaminess that really elevates the dish.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth: If you’re watching your salt intake, opt for low-sodium beef broth and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
• Let the Casserole Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to scoop.

Variations to Try

• Swap the Protein: You can easily switch out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
• Add Veggies: To make this casserole more nutritious, mix in some chopped spinach, peas, or bell peppers with the rice and beef.
• Use Different Cheeses: If you’re a fan of cheese variety, try using a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack for a fun twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a meal in itself, but here are a few ideas for side dishes that pair well with it:

• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up all the cheesy goodness.
• Steamed Veggies: Keep it simple with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a healthy side.

Storing and Reheating

• To Store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To Freeze: You can also freeze this casserole! Once cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• To Reheat: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is everything you want in a weeknight dinner quick, easy, cheesy, and downright delicious. The combination of tender rice, flavorful ground beef, and melty cheddar makes this casserole an instant family favorite. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday dinner, it’s sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings | Calories: ~450 kcal per serving