Few dishes check all the boxes of comfort food quite like a hearty casserole. It’s warm, cheesy, filling, and perfect for feeding a hungry family. Among all the casserole variations out there, the Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole stands tall as a classic that’s both budget-friendly and endlessly satisfying. Tender rice, seasoned ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce come together in a dish that feels like a hug in a baking dish.
This recipe is beloved because it’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet cozy enough to serve at gatherings. With minimal prep and everyday ingredients, it transforms into a complete meal with protein, carbs, and gooey melted cheese all in one bite. It’s also a dish that appeals to both kids and adults, making it a go-to when you need something hearty, reliable, and universally loved.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-dish wonder: Combines beef, rice, and cheese in a single, filling casserole.
- Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable proteins.
- Family-approved: Cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavor—kids won’t complain.
- Customizable: Add vegetables, change the seasonings, or adjust the cheese to make it your own.
- Great for leftovers: Reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a casserole that serves 6–8, you’ll need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground beef (lean, 85–90% preferred)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or brown rice, adjusted for cooking time)
- 3 cups beef broth or chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas, corn, or diced carrots for added veggies
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onions, breaking the meat apart as it browns. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and onions are softened, about 6–8 minutes. Add minced garlic during the last minute. Drain any excess fat.
2. Season and Combine
Stir in Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add uncooked rice and stir until well coated with the beef and seasonings.
3. Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice begins to soften.
4. Make the Creamy Base
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and sour cream, mixing until fully combined. This creates a creamy sauce that will bake beautifully into the casserole.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the top.
6. Bake
Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
7. Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
- Serve with warm bread rolls to soak up every bit of creamy sauce.
- For a Tex-Mex twist, top with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or avocado slices.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa on top for extra flair.
Pro Tips for the Best Casserole
- Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.
- Rest before serving: Giving the casserole 5–10 minutes allows the rice and sauce to set.
- Adjust rice cooking: Brown rice can be used, but it needs a longer pre-cook simmer (add 15 minutes).
- Make it veggie-packed: Stir in peas, corn, carrots, or spinach to boost nutrition.
- Double batch for meal prep: This casserole freezes well, so making extra is worth it.
Flavor Variations
- Tex-Mex Casserole: Add taco seasoning to the beef, mix in black beans and corn, and top with pepper jack cheese.
- Italian Style: Swap Worcestershire for tomato sauce, add Italian seasoning, and use mozzarella with Parmesan.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños.
- Breakfast-Inspired: Add crumbled cooked sausage instead of beef and top with extra cheese for a brunch-style bake.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze the baked casserole in portions for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe containers.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot, or microwave individual servings. Add a splash of broth or milk if reheating dries it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
Do I have to cook the rice before baking?
No, this recipe uses uncooked rice that cooks in the broth and sauce mixture, saving you time.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but increase the pre-cook simmer time by 15 minutes and add extra broth as needed.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Cheddar gives a sharp, classic flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella for stretchiness or Monterey Jack for a creamy melt.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely. It lightens the dish slightly and still provides creaminess.
Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving, approx.)
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 34 g
- Fat: 19 g
- Fiber: 2 g
Values vary depending on cheese, rice, and additional vegetables used.
Why This Recipe Works
This casserole works because it layers textures and flavors in a way that’s deeply satisfying. The ground beef brings savory richness, the rice adds heartiness, the soup and sour cream make it creamy, and the cheese ties everything together with gooey indulgence. It’s balanced, comforting, and endlessly adaptable.
Final Thoughts
The Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is more than just another family dinner—it’s the kind of dish that brings people back for seconds. It’s cozy, budget-friendly, and flexible enough to make with what you already have in your pantry. The combination of beef, rice, creamy sauce, and melted cheese makes it timeless comfort food that always delivers.
Serve it on a chilly evening, make it ahead for busy weeks, or bring it to a potluck and watch it disappear quickly. This casserole is proof that simple ingredients can create something memorable. Once you try it, it’s sure to become a regular on your table.