There’s simply nothing that warms the heart and nourishes the soul quite like a homemade casserole. This classic dish, with its cozy blend of flavors and textures, has a way of bringing families together around the dining table. Weeknights often feel hectic, but when you have an easy recipe like this one, you can create a hearty meal that everyone will love. I find comfort in knowing that there’s one dish that can be effortlessly prepared and is sure to bring everyone home for dinner.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not just a meal. It’s an experience that envelops you in nostalgia. The aroma of cooking ground beef mingling with onions fills the kitchen, evoking memories of meal times with loved ones. This dish harmonizes savory beef, creamy mushroom soup, and melty cheese, all snugly embracing fluffy rice. It’s a masterpiece of comfort that’s satisfying for the whole family, and it makes the perfect leftovers for school lunches or busy workdays.
Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need
To whip up a delicious Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, you’ll want to have a few essential kitchen tools on hand. These items will help you create this dish with ease and ensure everything turns out just right.
- Large skillet: This is perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions.
- Baking dish: A 9×13 inch dish works wonderfully for baking the casserole.
- Aluminum foil: Essential for covering the casserole while it bakes.
- Mixing spoon: For combining all your delicious ingredients together.
- Measuring cups: To accurately measure rice, broth, and veggies.
These tools not only make your cooking process smoother but also help you achieve that perfect, comforting casserole everyone loves.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole truly special is the way it delivers on flavor. Every bite is an explosion of comforting goodness. The richly seasoned ground beef is incredibly satisfying, and when paired with creamy mushroom soup, it offers an indulgent experience that feels like a warm hug.
There’s convenience in this dish, too. You can prepare it in just one pot before transferring it to the oven, making clean-up a breeze. The recipe is forgiving, allowing for various substitutions. Whether you have some extra veggies lingering in your fridge or prefer a healthier twist, this casserole adapts beautifully.
Here are a few reasons you’ll love making this dish:
- Simple preparation with minimal dishes.
- Makes for fantastic leftovers, perfect for lunch.
- Hearty ingredients that will keep you full and satisfied.
- Versatile enough for personal touches based on your family’s preferences.
- Great for gatherings or as a comforting meal for a busy weeknight.
The flavors and textures meld perfectly, creating a dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Ingredients
Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference in this casserole. Here’s what you’ll need for the Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting that beloved, comforting flavor profile. The beef provides a robust foundation, while the combination of cream of mushroom soup and beef broth creates a deliciously creamy base that makes this casserole irresistible.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures your casserole cooks evenly and becomes wonderfully bubbly when ready.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion. As the beef cooks, it will take on a beautiful brown color, and the onion will soften, releasing a lovely aroma. Once done, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole light and healthy.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. The soup will create a luscious sauce as if it were hugging the rice. If you’re using mixed vegetables, toss them in now as well. Season your mixture with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it evenly, covering the bottom of the dish so each bite will be just as tasty. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking. Bake for 30 minutes, letting all those flavors really come alive.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Pop the casserole back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbling, creating a beautiful golden top.
- Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time helps everything settle and makes serving easier.
Fun Variations You Can Try
The beauty of this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole lies in its versatility. You can easily customize the dish based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some creative twists to consider:
- Protein Swaps: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Vegetarian crumbles also work for a meatless version.
- Veggie Boost: Add different vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance nutrition and flavor. Frozen veggies work well too; just toss them in without thawing.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a zesty twist.
- Substitute Soups: Swap cream of mushroom for cream of chicken or even a homemade creamy sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Variants: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for added spice or Gruyère for a nutty flavor.
- Herbs & Spices: Adding dried herbs like oregano or thyme can elevate the dish even further.
These variations offer endless possibilities, keeping mealtime exciting and tailored to your family’s preferences.
How I Love to Serve It
When it comes time to serve my Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, the moment is all about comfort and familiarity. I like to scoop generous portions onto plates and let the golden cheese linger in the air like an invitation to dig in right away.
I often pair this comforting dish with a simple side salad that features crisp greens and a light vinaigrette, creating a nice balance to the rich casserole. Crispy breadsticks or homemade biscuits on the side make for the perfect accompaniment, ideal for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Setting the table with cozy dinnerware adds to the experience. Lighting a few candles can create a warm ambiance, making even a regular weeknight feel special. This dish is more than just food; it’s a moment to gather, relax, and enjoy each other’s company.
Helpful Tips from My Kitchen
To make your cooking experience smoother and your casserole even tastier, consider these handy tips:
- Brown the meat well: A good sear on the ground beef enhances flavor, so take your time.
- Use the right rice: Long-grain white rice works best, as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Don’t skip the rest period: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This makes it easier to serve and helps the flavors develop.
- Storage tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven for best results.
- Make-ahead option: Prepare everything ahead of time, refrigerate it overnight, and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
These little insights can make a big difference in your final dish, helping you recreate that cherished culinary experience time and again.
Important Cooking Reminders
- Ensure the ground beef is thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F for safety.
- Always let the casserole cool slightly before serving to prevent burns.
- Use a kitchen thermometer to avoid overcooking the beef.
- When reheating leftovers, make sure they reach a temperature of 165°F to ensure they’re safe to eat.
- Avoid letting the casserole sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent spoilage.
- Common mistakes include not browning the meat properly or overcrowding the baking dish, which affects the cooking process.
Nutritional Information (Estimated)
The Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not just a filling meal; it also provides essential nutrients. While specific nutrition can vary, a typical serving contains the following:
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Carbohydrates: Around 50 grams
- Fat: Roughly 18 grams
- Protein: About 25 grams
This casserole packs a wholesome punch, delivering the energy you need to fuel your day while still being a comfort food.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6-8
Common Questions You Might Have
What can I use if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re out of cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup as a substitute or make a quick white sauce using butter, flour, milk, and seasoning.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked casserole for up to three months. Just be sure to cover it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. When ready, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein crumbles or cooked lentils for a hearty vegetarian version.
Conclusion
When you take that first bite of Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, it’s like being wrapped in a warm blanket. The combination of textures—the tender rice, savory beef, and creamy sauce—creates a dish that feels like home. This recipe not only fills bellies; it ignites conversations around the table and brings family and friends closer together.
As you gather for dinner, remember the stories shared and the laughter that resonates. This casserole becomes more than just a meal; it becomes a container for memories and togetherness. It’s an easy, comforting dish that you can turn to again and again. I hope you cherish each moment you spend cooking and sharing this beautiful meal, just as I do. Enjoy!
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Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A comforting casserole featuring ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, fluffy rice, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. Add mixed vegetables if using, and season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish, covering evenly. Cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
- Return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
Can be customized with different proteins, vegetables, or cheeses. Leftovers make great lunches.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 425
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: casserole, ground beef, comfort food, family meal, quick dinner