Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with savory ground beef, hearty rice, and creamy mushroom soup, all topped off with melted cheddar cheese, this casserole is sure to please the entire family. It’s a delicious, all-in-one meal that comes together quickly and is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the beef and onion: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is evenly browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Prepare the casserole mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the cooked beef, rice, cream of mushroom soup, and water. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Assemble the casserole: Pour the beef mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the casserole: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Add cheese: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Different cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses for extra flavor.
- Add vegetables: To make it even more hearty, you can add vegetables like peas, corn, or bell peppers to the casserole mix.
- Cream of celery soup: If you’re not a fan of mushroom soup, try using cream of celery soup or another flavor variation for a different taste.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
- Reheating: To reheat, place individual servings in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, until heated through.
10 FAQs
- Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but it will take longer to cook. Make sure to follow the rice package instructions for cooking times and adjust the amount of water if necessary.
- Can I use a different kind of soup? Yes, you can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with other types of cream soups, such as cream of chicken or cream of celery, for a different flavor.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
- Can I add spices to give this dish more flavor? Absolutely! You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- What can I serve with this casserole? This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli for a well-rounded meal.
- Can I use pre-cooked rice? Yes, you can use pre-cooked rice, which will reduce the cooking time. Just combine it with the beef mixture, and bake for the 30 minutes covered, then add the cheese for the final 10 minutes.
- Can I make this casserole gluten-free? Yes, to make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether and check that your cream of mushroom soup is gluten-free.
- How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy? Make sure not to overcook the casserole. The rice will cook perfectly as it bakes, absorbing the liquid while remaining firm.
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef for a lighter version of the casserole.
- Can I freeze the casserole after baking? Yes, you can freeze the casserole after it has been baked. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—simple to make, filling, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this casserole hits the spot. With its creamy texture, cheesy topping, and savory beef, it’s a dish that will become a regular in your dinner rotation.