Melted Ground Beef Rice Casserole: 1 Perfect Meal

Ground Beef Rice Casserole has been my go-to for busy weeknights ever since I discovered how simple it is to create a hearty, comforting meal. I still remember the first time I made it for my family; the aroma of savory beef, simmering rice, and melting cheese filled the entire house, and within minutes, the dish was practically licked clean! This cheesy ground beef and rice bake is pure comfort food, perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Let’s get this easy meal started and enjoy a truly satisfying dinner!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This recipe is a weeknight winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly satisfying and delivers a flavor explosion with every bite. Here’s why it’s destined to become a favorite:

• It’s a true easy ground beef rice casserole recipe that comes together with minimal fuss.
• The combination of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese is pure comfort food bliss.
• This dish is perfect for a busy family ground beef rice casserole night, as it’s hearty enough for everyone.
• Cleanup is a breeze, often requiring just one pot and the casserole dish.
• It’s incredibly versatile – feel free to add your favorite veggies for an extra boost.
• Leftovers taste amazing, making it ideal for meal prep lunches.
• The cheesy, creamy texture is simply irresistible!

Ingredients for Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to making a delicious ground beef and rice casserole with cheese. This recipe focuses on pantry staples and fresh produce for maximum flavor and ease.

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean) – provides the savory base for our casserole.
• 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning – adds a classic herb flavor that complements the beef.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• 3 tbsp butter, divided – used for sautéing aromatics and adds richness.
• 0.75 cup diced onions – creates a sweet and savory foundation. Make sure they’re finely diced so they integrate well.
• 1 tbsp minced garlic – for that punch of aromatic flavor we all love.
• 2.5 cups beef broth – the liquid base for cooking the rice; check your rice package for precise liquid ratios.
• 1.25 cups uncooked white long-grain rice (not instant) – this is key for the perfect fluffy texture, avoiding a mushy result.
• 8 oz sliced button mushrooms, washed – they add an earthy depth and tender texture.
• 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup – this is a binder that adds creaminess and a rich mushroom flavor.
• 0.5 cup milk (any kind) – helps to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
• 0.5 cup sour cream – adds a tangy richness and extra creaminess to the casserole.
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided – for that irresistible cheesy topping and a melty layer within.

How to Make Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This step-by-step guide will walk you through creating a truly delicious and comforting ground beef rice casserole. From browning the beef to that final cheesy topping, each step is designed for maximum flavor and ease. Get ready to fill your kitchen with an amazing aroma!

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly.
2. Step 2: In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drain off any excess grease, then set the seasoned beef aside.
3. Step 3: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in the same pot. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften and become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Pour in the beef broth, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, and stir in the uncooked rice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Step 5: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot, cover again, and cook for another 5–10 minutes. Resist the urge to stir during this time; letting it sit undisturbed helps the rice cook properly. Remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, still covered, for 10 minutes.

6. Step 6: Return the cooked ground beef to the pot with the rice and mushrooms. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until it’s wonderfully creamy and combined.
7. Step 7: Transfer this delicious mixture to your prepared casserole dish. Spread it out evenly. Top generously with the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese, making sure to cover the entire surface for that perfect cheesy crust.
8. Step 8: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly all the way through. This step melds all the flavors together beautifully, creating a fantastic ground beef and rice bake.
9. Step 9: Once out of the oven, let this amazing cheesy ground beef rice casserole rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This brief resting period allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to serve and enhancing its creamy texture.

Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Want to elevate your ground beef rice casserole game? These little tricks make a big difference:

• Always use long-grain white rice; it holds its shape better than instant rice, preventing a mushy texture in your casserole.
• Don’t skip browning the beef and draining the grease – this is crucial for flavor and texture.
• Letting the rice and mushroom mixture sit covered off the heat for 10 minutes after simmering is key for perfect, fluffy rice.
• Taste and adjust seasonings before adding the cheese; this ensures every bite is perfectly seasoned.

What’s the secret to perfect Ground Beef Rice Casserole?

The secret to the best ground beef rice casserole lies in the rice cooking technique. Simmering it partially, then letting it steam undisturbed off the heat, ensures the grains are tender but distinct, not mushy. For more tips on cooking rice perfectly, you can check out resources on proper rice preparation.

Can I make Ground Beef Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This is a fantastic make-ahead meal. Assemble this simple ground beef rice casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ground Beef Rice Casserole?

A common pitfall is using instant rice, which leads to a gummy texture. Also, be sure to drain the beef grease well to avoid an overly oily casserole. Finally, don’t overcook the rice before mixing everything together. Understanding the science behind cooking can help prevent these issues; for instance, learning about how different starches behave can be insightful.

Best Ways to Serve Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This hearty ground beef rice casserole is so satisfying on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to create a complete meal. For a classic comfort food experience, I love serving it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the casserole beautifully. Another great option is some steamed broccoli or green beans. Their slight crunch and clean flavor provide a lovely contrast to the creamy, cheesy goodness of the ground beef and rice bake. You could even add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives on top for an extra touch of flavor!

Nutrition Facts for Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This ground beef rice casserole is a satisfying meal that balances protein and carbohydrates. Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving, which is approximately 1/6th of the casserole:

• Calories: 435 kcal
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Protein: 23g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the fat content of the ground beef and the type of milk and sour cream. For more detailed nutritional information on common ingredients, you can refer to resources like the USDA FoodData Central.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Leftovers of this delicious ground beef rice casserole are just as wonderful as the original dish. To store, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Properly stored, it will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to prep even further ahead, this casserole freezes beautifully! Once cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap individual servings tightly. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. This makes it super convenient for a quick ground beef rice casserole meal whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating is simple: For refrigerated portions, microwave individual servings until heated through, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered, until bubbly. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first, then reheat using the same methods. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if reheating from frozen to ensure it’s piping hot.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Rice Casserole

What is ground beef rice casserole?

It’s a classic comfort dish where seasoned ground beef and cooked rice are baked together, usually with a creamy sauce and topped with cheese. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners. Think of it as a warm hug in a casserole dish!

How to make ground beef rice casserole taste even better?

To really elevate your ground beef rice casserole, consider adding sautéed mushrooms and onions for depth of flavor, as we do in this recipe. A splash of Worcestershire sauce in the beef mixture also adds a savory umami kick. Don’t skimp on the cheese – a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack can be delicious! For more flavor-boosting ideas, explore ways to enhance savory dishes.

Is ground beef rice casserole comfort food?

Absolutely! This ground beef rice casserole comfort food is practically its definition. The combination of savory beef, tender rice, and melted cheese creates a warm, familiar, and deeply satisfying meal that many people associate with home-cooked goodness and cozy evenings.

Can I add vegetables to my ground beef rice casserole?

Yes, definitely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost nutrition and flavor. Frozen peas and carrots, diced bell peppers, or even some chopped spinach can be stirred in with the rice mixture. They add color, texture, and extra nutrients to your already delicious casserole.

Variations of Ground Beef Rice Casserole You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the basic ground beef rice casserole, you can have tons of fun experimenting with different flavors and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing and make your next meal exciting:

• Spicy Fiesta Casserole: Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and a pinch of chili powder to the beef mixture. Top with pepper jack cheese for an extra kick. This variation brings a fun, zesty twist.
• Ground Beef Rice Casserole with Vegetables: Boost the nutrition and flavor by stirring in a cup of frozen peas and carrots or some sautéed bell peppers and corn along with the rice. It adds color and a lovely freshness.
• Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole: Swap the ground beef for shredded cooked chicken and use chicken broth instead of beef broth. This creates a delicious, lighter, yet still incredibly satisfying creamy ground beef rice casserole alternative.
• One-Pan Skillet Bake: For an even quicker cleanup, try this method! Brown the beef and aromatics in an oven-safe skillet, then add the broth, rice, and liquids. Top with cheese and bake directly in the skillet.

Melted Ground Beef Rice Casserole: 1 Perfect Meal

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• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Halal

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Description

A cheesy and comforting ground beef and rice casserole that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. This easy ground beef rice casserole uses simple ingredients for a satisfying meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
• 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 tbsp butter, divided
• 0.75 cup diced onions
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 2.5 cups beef broth (follow rice package instructions for accuracy)
• 1.25 cups uncooked white long-grain rice (not instant)
• 8 oz sliced button mushrooms, washed
• 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup
• 0.5 cup milk (any kind)
• 0.5 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drain grease and set aside.
3. Melt 2 tbsp butter in the same pot. Add onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
4. Add beef broth, remaining butter, and rice. Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add mushrooms, cover again, and cook for another 5–10 minutes. Do not stir. Let pot sit covered for 10 minutes off heat.
6. Return cooked ground beef to the pot. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, sour cream, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Mix until creamy.
7. Transfer mixture to the casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes until hot and bubbly.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving this ground beef and rice bake.

Notes

• Use long-grain rice, not instant, to avoid mushy texture in your ground beef rice casserole.
• Add frozen vegetables for extra nutrition.
• Swap ground beef with turkey for a leaner option.
• Double the recipe and freeze one batch for later.
• Let the casserole sit after baking for best texture.
• This cheesy ground beef rice casserole is a great make-ahead meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Bake
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 435 kcal
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

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