Introduction
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and packed with flavor! It’s a one-dish wonder that combines tender ground beef, fluffy rice, juicy tomatoes, and tangy sour cream, all topped with a thick layer of gooey cheddar cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or for feeding a crowd, this casserole offers a balance of protein, carbs, and that irresistible cheesy goodness. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also versatile, allowing you to modify it based on what you have on hand. Plus, the ingredients are simple and budget-friendly, making this meal a great option for families.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Preparation
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and has a nice clean finish when serving.
Step 2:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Stir frequently, breaking up the beef until it’s browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. If needed, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This will allow the rice to absorb the liquid and cook through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4:
Once the rice is cooked and all the liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This adds creaminess and makes the casserole rich and velvety.
Step 5:
Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top to create a bubbly, golden crust as it bakes.
Step 6:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm for the best taste experience!
Cooking Notes
- Customizations: If you prefer more vegetables, consider adding diced bell peppers or mushrooms during the step when you cook the ground beef and onions. This will add extra texture and nutrition.
- Cheese Variety: For an even richer flavor, try using a mix of cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
- Rice Tip: Be sure to use uncooked long-grain rice for this recipe. Quick-cooking or instant rice will result in a mushier texture. If using brown rice, adjust the cooking time, as it requires longer to cook.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is hearty enough to serve as a complete meal, but you can pair it with various side dishes to round it out:
- A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the casserole.
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for added vegetables.
- For a comforting Southern twist, add buttermilk biscuits or cornbread as a side.
Tips
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up until the baking stage and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When ready to serve, bake it as directed, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
- Freezing: This casserole freezes well. After assembling, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and then bake as usual.
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the entire dish with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a crowd-pleaser and one of those recipes you’ll keep coming back to time and again. It’s warm, comforting, and easy to whip up, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. With gooey cheese, savory beef, and flavorful rice, every bite is satisfying. Plus, with the option to customize and make ahead, it’s a great addition to your recipe repertoire!
Print
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and has a nice clean finish when serving.
Step 2:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Stir frequently, breaking up the beef until it’s browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes. If needed, drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Step 3:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. This will allow the rice to absorb the liquid and cook through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4:
Once the rice is cooked and all the liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the sour cream and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. This adds creaminess and makes the casserole rich and velvety.
Step 5:
Transfer the mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top to create a bubbly, golden crust as it bakes.
Step 6:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm for the best taste experience!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 25g