Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Name: Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheese; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the comforting goodness of this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, a perfect family-friendly dish that combines savory ground beef, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice. This one-pot wonder is not only easy to prepare but also makes a delicious weeknight dinner option that everyone will love. With its hearty ingredients and cheesy topping, it's sure to be a hit at your dinner table.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-10-22T02:21:12.817Z

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will enjoy at the dinner table. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, requiring just a few simple ingredients.

A Hearty Family Meal

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a beloved dish in many households, and for good reason. It's not just a meal; it’s a complete dining experience that brings family and friends together. The layers of beef, rice, and cheese create a satisfying and wholesome dish that fills the stomach and warms the heart. Whether served on a busy weeknight or during special gatherings, this casserole stands out as a flavorful centerpiece.

By combining savory ingredients like ground beef and hearty rice with a gooey cheese topping, this recipe caters to the tastes of both kids and adults alike. Plus, it's versatile; you can easily customize the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or spices, making it adaptable to everyone's preferences. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for meal planning.

Meal Prep Made Easy

One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a delicious meal that requires little effort. This makes it ideal for busy families or anyone looking to streamline their cooking process. The one-pot nature of the casserole means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoyed around the dinner table.

To make things even easier, you can prepare the casserole in advance. Simply assemble it, refrigerate, and bake it when you're ready to eat. This feature deserves a spotlight, as it allows you to plan meals that fit your schedule without sacrificing taste or quality.

Perfect for Leftovers

Another benefit of this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is its incredible flavor the next day. Leftovers can be just as delightful, making it a great option for meal prep or lunch the following day. When reheated, the flavors meld beautifully, leading to a dish that tastes even better after a night in the refrigerator.

You can also repurpose leftovers creatively. Consider using the leftover casserole as a filling for burritos, topping for nachos, or even a base for a hearty soup. This versatility not only reduces food waste but also encourages creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dish in multiple ways.

Ingredients

Casserole Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked rice
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheese
1 can diced tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

Add Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until translucent.

Combine Ingredients

Add rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.

Simmer

Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Add Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheese. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.

Bake

Place under a broiler for 3-5 minutes, or until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. First, opt for high-quality ground beef for the richest flavor; lean beef also works well to minimize grease. Second, allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after broiling to let the cheese set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Consider adding a bit of heat with jalapeños or spices to cater to those who enjoy a kick in their meal. When it comes to the cheese, don’t shy away from experimenting with blends, such as mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack. This can elevate the depth of flavor and make each subsequent bite an adventure.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables make excellent accompaniments. They provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a burst of brightness and extra flavor delight.

For a festive touch, why not serve it with homemade cornbread or warm dinner rolls? This adds to the cozy comfort of your meal, making your dining experience feel even more special. Pair it with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a complete and satisfying family dinner.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and additional liquid.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole can be assembled and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake.