Name: Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Comfort!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef 🥩; 1 small onion, diced 🧅; Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂; 2 cups cooked white rice 🍚; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup 🍄; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided 🧀; 1/2 cup milk 🥛; 1/2 tsp garlic powder 🧄; 1/2 tsp paprika 🌶️; Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

When it comes to comfort food that pleases the whole family, few dishes compare to the heartwarming, soul-satisfying experience of a casserole. This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Comfort is a rich, cheesy, and savory classic that checks all the boxes for a hearty, weeknight dinner. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug in a baking dish—perfectly seasoned ground beef, fluffy white rice, creamy mushroom soup, and plenty of gooey cheddar cheese to bring it all together.

Not only is it quick to assemble with simple ingredients, but it’s also highly customizable and budget-friendly. It’s a casserole that stretches ingredients to feed a crowd, reheats beautifully for leftovers, and delivers bold, comforting flavors in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or serving it at a potluck, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your meal rotation.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef 🥩
1 small onion, diced 🧅
Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
2 cups cooked white rice 🍚
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup 🍄
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided 🧀
1/2 cup milk 🥛
1/2 tsp garlic powder 🧄
1/2 tsp paprika 🌶️
Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook while breaking the meat apart with a spatula until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and translucent—about 7–8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain off excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures the casserole won’t stick and will make for easier cleanup later.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with the cooked white rice, cream of mushroom soup, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well until the mixture is fully combined and evenly coated with the creamy base.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the cheesy beef and rice mixture into your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top to create a beautiful, bubbly crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. If you like your cheese slightly browned, broil it on high for the last 2–3 minutes—just watch it closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Then slice, serve, and enjoy!

Variations

Tex-Mex Twist: Add 1 teaspoon taco seasoning, a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and swap cheddar for a Mexican cheese blend.
Spicy Kick: Mix in a finely diced jalapeño or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for added heat.
Vegetable Boost: Stir in a cup of frozen peas, carrots, or corn to get some veggies into the mix without compromising on flavor.
Cream of Chicken Swap: Not a fan of mushroom? Use cream of chicken soup instead for a slightly different taste.

Cooking Note

Make sure your rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. Using slightly cooled rice (leftover rice works perfectly) helps the casserole keep its texture and prevents it from getting mushy.

Also, for the creamiest texture, avoid overbaking. As soon as the cheese is melted and bubbly, it’s done!

Serving Suggestions

With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole beautifully.
Roasted Veggies: Pair with oven-roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for added nutrients.
Garlic Bread: A few slices of toasted garlic bread on the side take this meal to the next level.
Hot Sauce or Ketchup: Let each person drizzle their favorite condiment for extra zing.

Tips

Use Leftover Rice: Cold, day-old rice gives the best texture in casseroles. It absorbs the creamy mixture better and doesn’t turn soggy.
Cheese Tip: Shred your own cheese for better melting. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Make Ahead: Assemble everything a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake fresh when ready.
Freeze-Friendly: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. based on 6 servings)

Calories: 460
Protein: 23g
Sodium: 690mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on the brand of ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice adds extra fiber and a nuttier taste. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works great in this recipe with the same seasoning.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute with cream of chicken or make a quick homemade white sauce using butter, flour, milk, and seasoning.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales well. Use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans for a crowd or batch cooking.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Comfort recipe is the definition of a family favorite: budget-friendly, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. With simple pantry staples and less than an hour of total time, you can bring a filling and flavorful meal to the table with minimal fuss. The mix of textures—from creamy to chewy to gooey—and the nostalgic flavor profile make this dish a go-to any time of year.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a reliable weeknight dinner, someone cooking for a group, or just craving something warm and cozy, this casserole has your back. Serve it once, and chances are it’ll earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Comfort!

Author: Imili Johnson
Total Time: 40 minutes

Print Recipe

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef 🥩
1 small onion, diced 🧅
Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂
2 cups cooked white rice 🍚
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup 🍄
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided 🧀
1/2 cup milk 🥛
1/2 tsp garlic powder 🧄
1/2 tsp paprika 🌶️
Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook while breaking the meat apart with a spatula until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and translucent—about 7–8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain off excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures the casserole won’t stick and will make for easier cleanup later.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with the cooked white rice, cream of mushroom soup, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well until the mixture is fully combined and evenly coated with the creamy base.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the cheesy beef and rice mixture into your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top to create a beautiful, bubbly crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. If you like your cheese slightly browned, broil it on high for the last 2–3 minutes—just watch it closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Then slice, serve, and enjoy!

Notes

Make sure your rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. Using slightly cooled rice (leftover rice works perfectly) helps the casserole keep its texture and prevents it from getting mushy.

Also, for the creamiest texture, avoid overbaking. As soon as the cheese is melted and bubbly, it’s done!

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 460
Sodium: 690mg
Protein: 23g

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef 🥩

1 small onion, diced 🧅

Salt and pepper, to taste 🧂

2 cups cooked white rice 🍚

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup 🍄

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided 🧀

1/2 cup milk 🥛

1/2 tsp garlic powder 🧄

1/2 tsp paprika 🌶️

Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onions. Cook while breaking the meat apart with a spatula until the beef is fully browned and the onions are soft and translucent—about 7–8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain off excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures the casserole won’t stick and will make for easier cleanup later.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and onion mixture with the cooked white rice, cream of mushroom soup, 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir well until the mixture is fully combined and evenly coated with the creamy base.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the cheesy beef and rice mixture into your greased baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top to create a beautiful, bubbly crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through. If you like your cheese slightly browned, broil it on high for the last 2–3 minutes—just watch it closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Then slice, serve, and enjoy!

Variations

Tex-Mex Twist: Add 1 teaspoon taco seasoning, a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, and swap cheddar for a Mexican cheese blend.

Spicy Kick: Mix in a finely diced jalapeño or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for added heat.

Vegetable Boost: Stir in a cup of frozen peas, carrots, or corn to get some veggies into the mix without compromising on flavor.

Cream of Chicken Swap: Not a fan of mushroom? Use cream of chicken soup instead for a slightly different taste.

Cooking Note

Make sure your rice is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole. Using slightly cooled rice (leftover rice works perfectly) helps the casserole keep its texture and prevents it from getting mushy.

Also, for the creamiest texture, avoid overbaking. As soon as the cheese is melted and bubbly, it’s done!

Serving Suggestions

With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole beautifully.

Roasted Veggies: Pair with oven-roasted broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus for added nutrients.

Garlic Bread: A few slices of toasted garlic bread on the side take this meal to the next level.

Hot Sauce or Ketchup: Let each person drizzle their favorite condiment for extra zing.

Tips

Use Leftover Rice: Cold, day-old rice gives the best texture in casseroles. It absorbs the creamy mixture better and doesn’t turn soggy.

Cheese Tip: Shred your own cheese for better melting. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can affect texture.

Make Ahead: Assemble everything a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake fresh when ready.

Freeze-Friendly: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. based on 6 servings)

Calories: 460

Protein: 23g

Sodium: 690mg

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on the brand of ingredients used.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice adds extra fiber and a nuttier taste. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works great in this recipe with the same seasoning.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?

You can substitute with cream of chicken or make a quick homemade white sauce using butter, flour, milk, and seasoning.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warm.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales well. Use a larger baking dish or two 9×13 pans for a crowd or batch cooking.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a reliable weeknight dinner, someone cooking for a group, or just craving something warm and cozy, this casserole has your back. Serve it once, and chances are it’ll earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition