Description
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Ground beef is browned with onions and garlic, then mixed with cooked rice, creamy mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese to create a rich and hearty casserole baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1/2 cup milk or beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the diced onion until the beef is fully browned and the onion has softened. Drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from being greasy.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, enhancing the flavor of the beef mixture.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, milk or beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a creamy sauce that binds the casserole ingredients together.
- Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, and the prepared sauce. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cheese to melt.
- Finish Baking: Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Optional Broil: For a crispy cheese topping, broil the casserole for 2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- Use cooked rice preferably day-old for better texture and to avoid excess moisture.
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup if preferred.
- For a lower fat option, use low-fat cheddar cheese and lean ground beef.
- Optional parsley garnish adds a fresh touch and color contrast.
- Ensure to drain excess beef fat well to prevent the casserole from being greasy.
- To make this meal more filling, add vegetables like peas or chopped bell peppers in the beef mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: ground beef casserole, cheesy casserole, rice casserole, beef and rice bake, easy dinner recipes, comfort food
