Easy Cheesy Beef Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, family-friendly dish that's perfect for busy weeknights. Made with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this casserole is easy to put together and always a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry, this recipe is a go-to option when you need something filling, flavorful, and quick to prepare.

The first time I made this for my family, my picky 8-year-old had three servings and asked if we could have it again the next night. That's when I knew this recipe was a definite keeper for our regular rotation.

Essential Ingredients and Selection Tips

• Ground Beef: 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio offers the best flavor without excess grease
• Long Grain Rice: Don't substitute minute rice; regular rice provides better texture and flavor
• Cream of Mushroom Soup: Creates the creamy binding that holds everything together
• Cheddar Cheese: Freshly grated melts better than pre-shredded
• Beef Broth: Adds depth of flavor as the rice cooks
• Mushrooms: Fresh sliced button mushrooms work best, but can be substituted with other vegetables

Detailed Cooking Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: Cook ground beef over medium-high heat until no longer pink. Season with Italian seasoning, salt and pepper while cooking. Drain grease, transfer to a plate, and cover with foil to keep warm.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Melt butter in the same pot. Add diced onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic during the last minute to avoid burning it.
3. Cook the Rice: Add beef broth, remaining butter, and uncooked rice to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover tightly. The tight cover traps steam, ensuring perfectly cooked rice.
4. Add Mushrooms: After simmering for 10 minutes, add mushrooms on top without stirring. Replace cover and continue cooking for the remaining time indicated on your rice package. The mushrooms will steam while the rice finishes cooking.
5. Let Rice Rest: Turn off heat but keep the lid on for 10 minutes without stirring. Any rice on the bottom of the pot will release.
6. Combine Creamy Elements: Return the ground beef to the pot and add cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, milk, and half the cheese. Gently fold together until well combined. The warm rice helps everything meld together beautifully.
7. Transfer and Top: Spoon the mixture into a greased 9x13 casserole dish and sprinkle with remaining cheese. The top layer of cheese will create an irresistible golden crust in the oven.
8. Bake Until Bubbly: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes. Serve!
9. Rest Before Serving: Let stand for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly, making it easier to portion.

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I learned the importance of not stirring the rice while it cooks after my first attempt resulted in a slightly mushy base. Now I make sure to let it all rest for those crucial 5 minutes before serving.

Make-Ahead Magic

This casserole is perfect for meal prep. You can assemble everything up to two days ahead and refrigerate it. When you're ready to cook, simply transfer the mixture to your baking dish, top with frozen tater tots and cheese, then bake as directed, adding about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. For even easier prep, portion the beef mixture into freezer bags, label with cooking instructions, and freeze for up to three months for a ready-to-assemble dinner anytime.

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Kid-Friendly Adaptations

For families with picky eaters, this dish offers wonderful flexibility. My children initially protested the "green things" (fresh herbs), so I started by serving them separate garnishes on the side. Over time, they've grown to appreciate the full-flavored version. For very spice-sensitive children, reduce the red pepper flakes slightly. The natural savory notes from the tomatoes usually win over even the most selective young eaters.

Chef's Essential Tips

• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of grated ginger to the marinade
• If you can't find Island Salsa, combine regular salsa with diced mango and pineapple
• Spice lovers can add a minced jalapeño or dash of cayenne to the marinade
• For a beautiful presentation, grill pineapple rings alongside the chicken
• Use a thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking
• If you don't have a grill, a grill pan on the stove works beautifully too

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Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole has become one of my signature comfort food dishes. There's something magical about the way such simple ingredients transform into a dish that tastes like it took hours of careful preparation, when in reality it required just minutes of active work. The fact that it's so simple to make is our little secret.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, just ensure it's fully cooked before adding to the casserole.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in airtight container up to 3 days. Reheat in microwave or oven.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, freeze in airtight container up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

→ Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?

Try cream of chicken or celery soup as alternatives.

→ What vegetables can I add?

Besides peas, try corn, diced bell peppers, or broccoli florets.