Introduction to Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Let’s be honest—some days feel like a whirlwind. In those chaotic moments, we need a home-cooked meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. That’s where my Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole comes in! It’s like a warm hug on a plate, ready to impress your loved ones without tying you up in the kitchen for hours. This dish is perfect for busy nights when you want something filling and delicious. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to add it to your weekly meal rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals alike! It requires minimal prep and cooks in just a short time, freeing you to catch up on other tasks. Plus, the delightful blend of cheesy goodness and savory beef makes it a hit at the dinner table. It’s also versatile enough to please even picky eaters. Easy, delicious, and comforting—what’s not to love?
Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
To create this delightful Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together beautifully.
- Ground Beef: The star of the show! A well-seasoned ground beef adds richness and protein, making it hearty.
- White Rice: Cooked white rice provides a cozy base, soaking up all the flavors from the beef and sauce.
- Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creamy soup acts as the perfect binder, adding moisture and a savory depth.
- Whole Milk: Just a splash creates a creamy texture, ensuring each spoonful is rich and satisfying.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: You can’t have cheesy goodness without cheese! It melts beautifully and adds a lovely color.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Just a dash will elevate the flavor, adding a savory umami touch that enhances the dish.
- Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These are my go-to seasonings for that classic savory profile without overpowering the dish.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for flavoring, adjust according to your taste preference.
Feel free to customize your casserole by adding your favorite veggies like peas or corn for nutrition. You can also swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
The exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for your convenience, so you can print it out and head to the store with ease!
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first—let’s get that oven cranking! Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). This step is crucial for the casserole to cook evenly. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking dish. I love using a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) dish. If you like, you can lightly grease it with cooking spray or butter to make serving a breeze later on.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Now, let’s bring that delicious ground beef to life! In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. Keep stirring it occasionally, ensuring it cooks evenly. Once it’s ready, be sure to drain any excess fat. We want a savory filling, not a greasy one! This step is key to keeping our casserole light yet flavorful.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef with the white rice, creamy soup, and milk. Stir in 100 grams of the shredded cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. The mixture should be creamy and well-blended. This is where the magic starts to happen! With every ingredient you mix in, imagine how comforting this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole will be. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some frozen peas or corn for an extra pop of color and nutrients!
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the savory mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Make sure it’s nice and level so every bite gets that mouthwatering goodness! Finally, sprinkle the remaining 50 grams of cheddar cheese over the top, which will give it that glorious cheesy crust. Honestly, who can resist the smell of melting cheese baking in the oven?
Step 5: Bake
Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake it for about 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and you’ll know it’s done when the cheese is melted and bubbly! The golden-brown cheese on top is a sure sign of a delicious meal waiting to happen. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving, because hot cheesy goodness can be a bit too enthusiastic at first!
Tips for Success
- Use lean ground beef to keep the casserole light and flavorful.
- Don’t skip draining the excess fat; it helps maintain a well-balanced dish.
- For extra flavor, mix in your favorite veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Make it ahead of time! Assemble and refrigerate the casserole before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container; they’ll taste even better the next day!
Equipment Needed
- Skillet: A large skillet is essential for browning your beef. A Dutch oven works as a great alternative!
- Mixing Bowl: Use a large mixing bowl to combine all your ingredients. A large pot can do the job, too!
- Baking Dish: A 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish is ideal. If you don’t have one, any oven-safe dish will work.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Perfect for accurate ingredient measurement; feel free to eyeball if you’re in a hurry!
Variations for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap out the ground beef for a combination of mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a hearty veggie version.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a blend for diverse flavors.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace white rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb twist on this classic casserole.
- Asian-Inspired: Incorporate soy sauce and sesame oil into the mix and top with green onions for an Asian flair.
- Southwestern Style: Mix in black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a fun Southwestern twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole with a simple side salad for a refreshing crunch.
- Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the cheesy goodness.
- Complement with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a delightful meal experience.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for an appealing presentation!
FAQs about Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
As you dive into the delicious world of this Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, you may have some questions bubbling up. Don’t worry! I’ve got you covered.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. When ready, just pop it into the oven, and you’ll have a hot meal in no time!
What if I don’t have ground beef?
No problem! You can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or your favorite veggies. The flavor will still be spot on!
How do I store leftovers?
Once your casserole cools, transfer leftovers to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
What sides go well with this casserole?
I recommend serving your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole with a crisp side salad or steamed veggies. They balance the richness perfectly!
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly. To bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Final Thoughts
My Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort and togetherness. Each bite is a reminder of the warmth and love shared around the dinner table with family. This dish comes to life effortlessly, allowing you to spend less time cooking and more time enjoying those precious moments with loved ones. It’s versatile enough to adapt to your family’s tastes while remaining comforting and satisfying. So, the next time you’re scrambling for dinner ideas, remember this casserole; it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home.
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Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole: Easy Comfort Food!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting and easy casserole made with ground beef, rice, and cheese, perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients
- 680 grams ground beef
- 400 grams cooked white rice
- 305 grams condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 120 millilitres whole milk
- 150 grams shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 5 millilitres Worcestershire sauce
- 1.25 millilitres garlic powder
- 1.25 millilitres onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 175°C.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until fully browned and no longer pink.
- Drain excess fat from the cooked beef.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine browned beef, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 100 grams cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture evenly into a 23 x 33 centimetre baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 50 grams cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the casserole is hot and bubbling.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn for added nutrition.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 750 milligrams
- Fat: 25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 25 grams
- Cholesterol: 90 milligrams
