Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together flavorful ingredients for a delicious family meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty that can be made in one pot and baked to perfection. With layers of seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and melty cheese, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your dinner table.
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Why Make This Recipe
This casserole is not only easy to make, but it also uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. It’s a great choice for those who want a filling meal without spending hours cooking. The combination of ground beef and rice provides essential nutrients while the cheese adds a creamy texture and richness. Plus, it’s an excellent way to please both kids and adults who enjoy cheesy goodness!
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the rice and beef broth, bringing to a boil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Serve the casserole warm, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for extra flavor.
How to Store Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
To store leftover casserole, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. To reheat, just pop it back into the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or corn to the mix for extra nutrition.
- If you want a spicier kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- For added flavor, you can mix in some garlic powder or onion powder into the beef.
Variation
You can easily make this casserole with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Using brown rice instead of white rice will also add a nuttier flavor and increase the fiber content.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time and increase the amount of beef broth since brown rice takes longer to cook.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance, cover it, and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
3. What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar and mozzarella are great choices, but you can also experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For sautéing
- 1 medium onion, diced Adds flavor
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20) Seasoned to taste
- 1 cup rice Uncooked
- 2 cups beef broth For cooking rice
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) For topping
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the rice and beef broth, bringing to a boil. Season with salt and pepper.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is cooked.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
