Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that brings everyone to the table, Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect choice. This satisfying dish combines tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce baked together until bubbly and golden. It’s the kind of meal that warms both the heart and the stomach, making it ideal for family dinners, busy weeknights, or cozy evenings at home.

This casserole has long been a family favorite in many households because it’s simple, filling, and incredibly flavorful. With minimal prep and everyday ingredients, it’s a dependable recipe you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.

What Is Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a classic oven-baked dish made with seasoned ground beef, uncooked rice, broth, and a creamy sauce, all topped with melted cheese. As it bakes, the rice absorbs the flavors of the beef and seasonings, creating a perfectly balanced, one-dish meal.

It’s a timeless comfort food recipe that proves simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

• Comforting and Filling: Rich, cheesy, and hearty in every bite

• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable pantry staples

• Family-Friendly: A meal everyone enjoys

• One-Dish Wonder: Minimal cleanup and easy preparation

This casserole is perfect when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Quick Overview

This recipe comes together easily and bakes into a creamy, satisfying casserole in about one hour total. It’s ideal for both weeknight dinners and meal prepping.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (halal)

• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice

• 2 cups beef broth (or water)

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup cream of mushroom soup (halal-certified or homemade)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ cup frozen peas (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook the Beef
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.

3. Season and Combine
   Add garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir for one minute. Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix until well combined.

4. Assemble the Casserole
   Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly. Stir in peas if using.

5. Add Cheese
   Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

6. Bake
   Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15–20 minutes, until the rice is tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve
   Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Indulge in a comforting dish featuring tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce that warms the heart.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Casserole, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 480

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (halal)
• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
• 2 cups beef broth (or water)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra for topping)
• 1 cup cream of mushroom soup choose a halal-certified option or make your own
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until browned and tender, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika, cooking for another minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

Baking

1. Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and the cheese is bubbly.

Serving

1. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For substitutions, ground chicken or turkey works well instead of beef. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can enhance flavor and nutrition. Ensure there’s enough liquid for the rice to cook properly.