Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

 

When life gets busy and your family is hungry, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm, cheesy casserole straight from the oven. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is one of those simple, satisfying recipes that delivers every single time—no fancy ingredients, no complicated steps, just good old-fashioned comfort food.

Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect weeknight meal for when you want something easy and filling. Plus, it makes great leftovers—if you have any!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• ✅ Quick & easy – Comes together in under an hour.

• ✅ Family-friendly – Kids and adults both devour it.

• ✅ Budget-friendly – Uses pantry staples and simple ingredients.

• ✅ Customizable – Add veggies, swap cheeses, or spice it up.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup sour cream

• ½ cup milk

• 1½ cups cooked white rice

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• ½ cup frozen peas (optional)

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, chopped onion, and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is soft (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess fat, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

3. Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine:

• The cooked ground beef mixture

• Cream of mushroom soup

• Sour cream

• Milk

• Cooked white rice

• 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese

• Frozen peas, if using

Stir until everything is well mixed and creamy.

4. Assemble the Casserole

Pour the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Smooth it into an even layer, then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese evenly on top.

5. Bake

Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.

6. Cool & Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

 Tips & Variations

• Swap proteins: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

• Add veggies: Mix in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers.

• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

• Make it ahead: Prep and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours.

 Serve With:

• A simple green salad

• Garlic bread or warm rolls

• Roasted or steamed veggies

This casserole is one of those nostalgic dishes that reminds you of home. It’s cozy, satisfying, and filled with familiar flavors that make everyone at the table smile. Whether you’re cooking for your family or feeding a crowd, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a guaranteed winner.