Savory Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is my go to dinner when I need something filling, cozy, and basically guaranteed to make everyone happy. You know those nights when you are tired, the sink is already giving you side eye, and you still want real food that tastes like you tried? That is exactly when this casserole shows up and saves the day. It is cheesy, beefy, a little creamy, and the rice makes it feel like a full meal in one pan. Plus, it reheats like a dream, which means tomorrow you get a bonus win.

Ingredients for the Best Ground Beef and Rice Casserole (With Substitutions)

I keep this recipe super flexible because real life is flexible. Here is what I typically use, plus easy swaps if you are missing something.

• Ground beef (lean is nice, but any works)
• Rice (see my rice notes below, it matters)
• Onion and garlic (or onion powder and garlic powder in a pinch)
• Beef broth (or chicken broth, or even water with bouillon)
• Tomato sauce or diced tomatoes (for a little tang and moisture)
• Creamy element like sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a can of cream of mushroom
• Cheese (cheddar is classic, but you have options)
• Seasonings: salt, pepper, paprika, Italian seasoning or taco seasoning depending on your mood
• Optional add ins: frozen corn, peas, chopped bell peppers, spinach

If you want another cozy beef dinner idea, I also make this on repeat when I am craving comfort: Sour Cream Beef Noodle Casserole. Similar vibes, different carb, still super satisfying.

Choosing the Right Rice, Cheese, and Ground Beef for Perfect Texture

This is where a good casserole becomes a great one. The texture can go from creamy and scoopable to dry and sad if the ingredients are mismatched, so here is what I have learned the not so fun way.

Rice tips that actually matter

For the most reliable results, I like long grain white rice if I am cooking it in the casserole. It holds up well and does not turn into mush. If I am using leftover cooked rice, almost anything works, even jasmine or basmati.

Brown rice is totally fine, but it needs more liquid and more time. Minute rice works too, but it can get soft fast, so keep an eye on it.

Cheese wise, sharp cheddar gives the most flavor. Monterey Jack melts beautifully. Mozzarella makes it stretchy. A little cream cheese mixed in is honestly a power move if you want extra creamy.

For ground beef, I aim for 85 15 or 90 10. If you use fattier beef, just drain it well so the casserole does not get greasy. And if beef is not your thing, ground turkey works, but you may want a little extra seasoning.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

This is the straight forward way I make it most often, baked in the oven. It is simple, and your kitchen will smell amazing.

My easy method (no stress)

1) Preheat your oven to 375 F. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.

2) Brown the beef in a big skillet with chopped onion. When it is mostly cooked, add garlic for about 30 seconds. Drain extra grease if needed.

3) Stir in seasonings, tomato sauce (or tomatoes), broth, and rice. If you are using uncooked rice, make sure the rice is fully covered by liquid. If you are using cooked rice, reduce the broth a bit since you do not need to cook the rice.

4) Add creamy stuff like sour cream or Greek yogurt, then stir in about half the cheese. Taste and adjust salt.

5) Bake covered with foil until the rice is tender if it started uncooked. This is usually 30 to 45 minutes depending on the rice.

6) Top with the rest of the cheese and bake uncovered 5 to 10 minutes until bubbly.

7) Rest for 10 minutes. This helps it set so it scoops nicely.

If you like rice casseroles in general, this one is a fun cousin recipe when you want a different flavor: Chicken Enchilada Rice Casserole.

Pro Tips for a Creamy, Flavor-Packed Baked Beef and Rice Casserole

This is where I tell you the little things that make people ask, wait, what did you put in this?

Toast the spices for a few seconds in the skillet with the beef before adding liquids. It wakes them up.

Do not skip the rest time after baking. The casserole thickens and turns creamy instead of soupy.

Layer the cheese. Mixing some inside and saving some for the top gives you flavor throughout and that golden bubbly top.

Add something with brightness if it tastes heavy. A spoon of salsa, a splash of hot sauce, or even a tiny squeeze of lime can balance the richness.

One-Pan vs. One-Pot Method: Skillet and Oven Variations Explained

I do the oven version when I want that classic baked top. But you can absolutely make this work in other ways.

One pan skillet version: Use cooked rice. Brown the beef, add seasonings and tomato, stir in rice and creamy ingredients, then top with cheese. Cover for a few minutes until the cheese melts. It is fast and perfect for weeknights.

One pot stove top version: Use uncooked rice but keep the heat low and stir occasionally so it does not stick. You will need a tight lid and patience.

Oven baked version: Best when you want hands off cooking and that browned cheesy finish.

When I am feeling more of a beef and veggies vibe, I switch gears and make this: Ground Beef Stir Fry Bowl. Still easy, just a different texture and freshness.

Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Tips for Busy Weeknights

This casserole is basically built for planning ahead, which is why I love it when my week gets chaotic.

You can prep the beef mixture up to 2 days ahead and keep it in the fridge. Then mix with rice and bake when you are ready.

You can also assemble the whole dish in the casserole pan, cover, and refrigerate overnight. The only thing is you might need to add an extra splash of broth before baking since the rice can soak up liquid while it sits.

For meal prep, portion leftovers into containers and add a little extra cheese on top before reheating. It feels like a fresh mini casserole.

Easy Variations: Mexican, Italian, and Healthy Beef and Rice Casserole Twists

I do not make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole the same way every time. Here are my favorite spins:

Mexican: Swap tomato sauce for salsa, add black beans and corn, use taco seasoning, and top with cheddar plus pepper jack. Finish with cilantro.

Italian: Use marinara, add Italian seasoning, stir in spinach, and top with mozzarella and parmesan. A little roasted red pepper is great here.

Healthy-ish: Use lean beef or ground turkey, add extra veggies like zucchini and peppers, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and go lighter on the cheese.

If you want a rice dinner with a totally different vibe, this one is fun and sunny: Caribbean Chicken and Rice.

How to Make a Budget-Friendly Hamburger Rice Casserole

This is one of the cheapest comfort meals I know, and it still feels like a real dinner.

To keep it budget friendly, I buy store brand cheese and shred it myself. Pre shredded costs more and does not melt as smoothly anyway.

I also stretch the meat with:

Frozen mixed veggies, extra onion, or even chopped cabbage.

And if beef is pricey, you can do half beef and half beans. It still tastes hearty and you get extra fiber.

What to Serve with Ground Beef Rice Casserole (Side Dish Ideas)

This casserole is filling, so I keep sides simple. A fresh crunchy side makes it feel balanced.

• Simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette
• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• Garlic bread if you want full comfort mode
• Sliced cucumbers and tomatoes with a little salt

And if you are browsing for more side ideas, this collection is helpful: Appetizers and Sides.

How to Store, Freeze, and Reheat Beef and Rice Casserole Properly

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is one of those leftovers that makes you excited for lunch.

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze portions wrapped tightly for up to 3 months. I like freezing individual squares so I can grab one at a time.

Reheat: Microwave works great. Add a splash of broth or water, cover loosely, and heat until hot. For oven, cover with foil at 350 F until warmed through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Baking Beef and Rice Casserole

I have made every mistake so you do not have to.

Not enough liquid: Rice needs liquid, especially if it is uncooked. If the top looks dry halfway through, add a little broth around the edges and re cover.

Forgetting to drain grease: Too much fat makes it oily and heavy.

Overbaking: If it bakes too long, the rice keeps soaking up liquid and can turn dry. Check it when the rice should be done, not 20 minutes later.

Using pre shredded cheese only: It can melt a little grainy. Shredding your own makes a difference.

How to Make This Casserole Healthier (Low-Carb, High-Protein, Gluten-Free Options)

You can keep the comfort but tweak it to fit what you need.

Low carb: Swap rice for cauliflower rice. Use the skillet method with cooked cauliflower rice and reduce liquid a lot.

High protein: Use lean ground beef, stir in cottage cheese or Greek yogurt for extra protein, and add beans if you like them.

Gluten free: This is naturally gluten free if you avoid canned soups with gluten and double check broth labels. Stick with simple ingredients and you are good.

I will say it again because it matters: Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is super flexible. You can make it work for your house without losing the cozy factor.

Common Questions

Can I use leftover rice?
Yes. It is actually faster. Just reduce the broth since the rice does not need to cook, it just needs to heat through.

Why is my casserole dry?
Usually not enough liquid or it baked too long. Add a splash of broth when reheating and it often comes right back to life.

Can I make this without canned soup?
Absolutely. Use sour cream or Greek yogurt plus a little extra cheese, and make sure you have enough broth for the rice.

What is the best cheese for this?
Sharp cheddar for flavor, Monterey Jack for melt. A mix of both is my favorite.

Can I freeze it before baking?
Yes, but I prefer freezing after baking for best texture. If freezing unbaked, thaw in the fridge overnight and add a splash of broth before baking.

A cozy dinner you will come back to

If you try this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, I really think it will land in your regular dinner rotation, especially on those busy nights when you just need something dependable. Keep it classic or play with the variations, either way you will get a bubbly, cheesy pan of comfort. If you want another perspective and a quick visual walk through, this recipe page is worth checking out: Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole [+Video] – Oh Sweet Basil. Let me know how you make yours, and do not be surprised if someone asks for seconds before you even sit down.

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