Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole – Hearty, Comforting & Easy
Introduction
This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the definition of comfort food. With savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, fluffy rice, and plenty of melted cheddar, it’s a one‑dish meal that’s simple to prepare and loved by the whole family. Perfect for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings, this casserole is filling, flavorful, and always a crowd‑pleaser.
Ingredients
1½ lbs ground beef
2 cups cooked white rice
1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
½ cup milk
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
Salt & black pepper to taste
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Cook Beef
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink.
Drain off excess fat.
Step 3: Mix Casserole Base
In a large bowl, combine cooked beef, rice, mushroom soup, milk, 1 cup cheddar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble
Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13‑inch baking dish.
Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheddar over the top.
Step 5: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25 minutes, until cheese is melted and casserole is hot and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving warm.
Tips & Tricks
Rice swap: Use brown rice or wild rice for extra texture.
Veggie boost: Stir in peas, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition.
Creamier version: Add ½ cup sour cream to the mixture.
Make ahead: Assemble casserole earlier in the day, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
Variations
Tex‑Mex Style: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and top with salsa.
Italian Twist: Use marinara sauce instead of mushroom soup and mozzarella instead of cheddar.
Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or hot sauce.
Breakfast Casserole: Swap beef for sausage and add scrambled eggs.
Serving Ideas
Pair with a crisp green salad.
Serve with garlic bread or dinner rolls.
Add roasted vegetables on the side.
Perfect for potlucks or freezer meals.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Servings: 6–8
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is hearty, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized to suit your taste, making it a reliable go‑to for family dinners or gatherings.