Description
There’s something magical about a casserole that brings the entire family together around the dinner table. The Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the epitome of comfort food – a hearty, satisfying dish that combines the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese into one spectacular meal. This recipe has been a staple in American households for generations, and for good reason.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Components:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for optimal flavor and texture)
- 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old rice for better texture)
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup whole milk (for creaminess)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided (sharp cheddar recommended)
Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (adds umami depth)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor:
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. If you haven’t already cooked your rice, prepare 2 cups of white rice according to package directions. Day-old rice works exceptionally well as it’s less sticky and holds its shape better during baking.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is completely browned and no pink remains. The beef should be nicely browned with some caramelized bits for maximum flavor. Drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving just enough to keep the meat moist.
While the beef is still hot in the skillet, season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly. The residual heat will help bloom the spices and enhance their flavors. If using fresh onions and garlic, add them to the skillet before the beef is fully cooked.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and Worcestershire sauce. Add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving the remaining ½ cup for topping. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should be creamy but not too wet.
Transfer the mixture to your prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top.
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to cut and serve neat portions.
Notes
Cooking Notes
The key to a perfect casserole is using the right rice-to-liquid ratio. If your mixture seems too dry, add an extra splash of milk or broth. Conversely, if it’s too wet, let it rest for a few minutes to allow the rice to absorb the moisture.
Don’t skip the resting period after baking – this crucial step allows the casserole to set properly and prevents it from being soupy when served. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for food safety.
For the best cheese melt, use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded, as it melts more smoothly and doesn’t contain anti-caking agents.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: cheesy ground beef rice casserole, comfort food, ground beef casserole, rice casserole, family dinner, one dish meal