I made this cheesy Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe on one of those busy evenings when I wanted comfort food without a sink full of dishes. From the first bite, I knew it was going to be a repeat recipe in my kitchen. The creamy texture, tender rice, and savory beef come together so effortlessly. I love how it feels like a warm hug in casserole form. If you enjoy hearty meals, you might also enjoy a Rosemary Chicken Recipe that delivers similar comforting flavors.

Ingredients Section

Below is everything you’ll need, along with why each ingredient matters and a few helpful tips I’ve learned along the way.

Ground beef – 1 pound (use lean 85–90% beef so the casserole stays flavorful without excess grease; always drain after browning)

Long-grain white rice – 1 cup, uncooked (this rice cooks evenly and absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly; avoid instant rice to prevent mushiness)

Beef broth – 2 cups (adds deep, savory flavor to the rice; low-sodium broth gives better control over salt levels)

Cream of mushroom soup – 1 can, 10.5 oz (creates the creamy base that binds everything together smoothly without overpowering the beef)

Milk – ½ cup (loosens the soup and keeps the casserole creamy instead of thick or dry)

Yellow onion – 1 small, finely diced (adds mild sweetness and aroma; small pieces blend seamlessly into the casserole)

Garlic – 2 cloves, minced (fresh garlic gives a warmer, richer flavor than powdered versions)

Cheddar cheese – 2 cups, freshly grated (freshly grated cheese melts smoother and creamier than pre-shredded cheese)

Butter – 2 tablespoons (adds richness and helps sauté the onion and garlic evenly)

Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon (brings subtle herbal flavor that balances the creamy ingredients)

Salt – ½ teaspoon, or to taste (adjust based on broth and soup sodium levels)

Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon (enhances savory flavor without overpowering the dish)

Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, chopped, optional (adds color and a fresh finish before serving)

Note: This recipe yields approximately 4–6 servings based on the ingredient quantities listed above.

Variations

This casserole is easy to adapt, which is one reason I keep coming back to it. For a dairy-free version, you can use dairy-free cream soup, plant-based milk, and vegan cheese alternatives that melt well. If you want to boost flavor, adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika works beautifully. For extra vegetables, finely chopped bell peppers or mushrooms blend right in. You can also swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option, or try the flavors of a Jerk Chicken Recipe for a spicier twist.

Cooking Time

Here’s how the time breaks down so you can plan your meal easily:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour and 5 minutes

Equipment You Need

Large skillet – for browning the ground beef and sautéing aromatics
Medium saucepan – to briefly warm the broth and soup mixture
9×13-inch baking dish – ideal size for even cooking
Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring without scratching cookware
Aluminum foil – to cover the casserole while baking

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe?

This section walks you through the process in a simple, stress-free way. Once you’ve made it once, it feels almost automatic.

Prepare the Beef Mixture

Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. I add the diced onion and let it soften until translucent, then stir in the garlic just until fragrant. The ground beef goes in next, and I break it apart while cooking until it’s fully browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, then drain any excess fat.

Create the Creamy Base

In a saucepan, I gently warm the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and milk together. This step helps everything combine smoothly later. Stir until the mixture is creamy and well blended, without bringing it to a boil.

Assemble the Casserole

In the baking dish, I combine the uncooked rice, cooked beef mixture, and creamy liquid. Everything gets stirred thoroughly so the rice is evenly distributed. At this point, I fold in about half of the shredded cheese for extra creaminess throughout.

Bake Until Perfect

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). This allows the rice to cook fully and absorb all that flavor. After about 45 minutes, I remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Rest and Serve

Once it comes out of the oven, I let the casserole rest for about 5–10 minutes. This helps it set and makes serving easier. A little chopped parsley on top adds freshness before serving.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After making this casserole several times, I’ve picked up a few tricks that really elevate it:

I always let the casserole rest before serving; it improves texture a lot.
Using freshly grated cheese makes the top melt beautifully.
I sometimes toast the rice lightly in butter before assembling for extra flavor.
If I want a crispier top, I broil it for 1–2 minutes at the end.

How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe?

This casserole is hearty on its own, but I love pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. For presentation, serve it straight from the baking dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives. If you’re hosting, individual portions plated with a side of garlic bread look inviting and comforting.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the general nutrition per serving. Values may vary based on ingredients used.

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: About 25 grams, thanks to the beef and cheese
Carbohydrates: Around 35 grams, mainly from rice
Fat: Roughly 25 grams, contributing to the rich flavor

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead

I often assemble the casserole a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, I let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

Storage

Leftovers stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing and Reheating

This casserole freezes well for up to 2 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat covered in the oven until warmed through. Adding a splash of milk helps restore creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This casserole has so much going for it, which is why it’s a favorite in my kitchen.

It’s incredibly easy to prepare and doesn’t require fancy techniques.
The ingredients are simple, affordable, and easy to find.
It’s versatile enough to customize with different proteins or add-ins.
The flavors are comforting, cheesy, and satisfying for all ages.

If you’re looking for a reliable, cozy meal that feels homemade and nourishing, this cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is one you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Ash Tyrrell