Name: Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1 small onion, diced; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Hey y’all! If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food that’s hearty, bubbling with cheesy goodness, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters, you’ve come to the right place. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the answer to busy weeknights, potlucks, or anytime you need a cozy, satisfying meal for the whole crew. Creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-easy, it’s about to become your new family favorite. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Quick and simple—perfect for whipping up a weeknight dinner in under an hour.
Loaded with savory flavors, melty cheese, and a creamy texture everyone loves.
Incredibly versatile—customize with your favorite veggies or cheeses.
Feeds a crowd and makes delicious leftovers for lunch the next day.
A complete, filling meal all in one baking dish!

Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

1 lb ground beef (85% lean recommended)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
2 cups beef broth
1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Prep Oven and Dish

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick spray or a bit of olive oil.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Sauté the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Transfer the cooked beef and onions to the casserole dish. Add the uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, drained diced tomatoes, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine everything evenly.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese on top, and return to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 8-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the rice is tender.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Enjoy hot and cheesy!

Notes for the Perfect Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Use freshly shredded cheddar for the best melt and flavor, or mix up with Monterey Jack or mozzarella to change things up (read more on cheese selection).
Make sure to drain the tomatoes well—the extra liquid can make your casserole soggy.
If your rice isn’t fully tender after baking, cover and bake for 5-10 more minutes, checking after each interval (helpful rice cooking tips).

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Variations

Mexican Style: Add 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, and substitute diced tomatoes with Rotel.
Veggie Packed: Stir in 1 cup chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Creamy Chicken: Use ground chicken and cream of chicken soup for a lighter twist.

Required Equipment for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Large skillet or sauté pan
9×13-inch casserole dish
Mixing spoon or spatula
Aluminum foil
Measuring cups and spoons

Storing Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole (Shelf Life & Reheating)

Let the casserole cool to room temperature, then cover tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave until warmed through.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
Warm garlic bread or cornbread pairs perfectly with the cheesy, savory casserole.
Add a simple side of roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for a well-rounded dinner.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Always use uncooked rice in this recipe; pre-cooked rice will get mushy after baking (rice tips here).
Browning the beef thoroughly adds extra depth and a caramelized flavor boost.
Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking helps everything set and stay creamy when you scoop it.

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?: Yes, but increase the baking time by 15-20 minutes and add up to 1/2 cup more broth as brown rice takes longer to cook.
Can I make this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole ahead of time?: Absolutely! Prep the casserole up to the point before baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake as directed.
Is this recipe gluten-free?: If you use a certified gluten-free cream of mushroom soup, this casserole can easily be made gluten-free.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour