Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy mushrooms, and melted cheese with fluffy rice. It is simple to make and perfect for feeding a hungry family. This casserole brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It requires a few basic ingredients, most of which you may already have at home. The casserole is hearty and filling, making it a great choice for dinner. Plus, it’s an all-in-one meal that saves on cleanup, allowing you to enjoy more time with your family!
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground beef, 85% lean
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the onions until fully cooked.
- Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, diced mushrooms, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well and transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole
Serve this casserole warm from the oven. It pairs nicely with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also add some extra spices or hot sauce for those who like a little heat.
How to Store Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. The casserole can be stored for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Tips to Make Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole
- For added flavor, you can sauté the mushrooms with the onions before adding them to the mixture.
- If you want a little crunch, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Feel free to use any cheese you like. Monterey Jack or Swiss can be great alternatives to cheddar.
Variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by adding different vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used as a substitute. Just be sure to cook it beforehand.
2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it.
3. What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole goes well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef, 85% lean
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced mushrooms
- ½ cup chopped onions
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef with the onions until fully cooked.
- Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, diced mushrooms, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well and transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly.
- Serve warm.
