Theres just something cozy about Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole that makes people smile. It started popping up in familys homes long ago, and now everyones got their own little twist on it. With simple ingredients like ground beef, rice and heaps of cheese, it dont take much effort to whip up a meal thats warm and filling.
This casserole is also super flexible. You can swap the beef for turkey or chicken, toss in extra veggies or even use different cheeses if you like. That makes it a go-to dinner when you gotta please picky eaters or need something quick after a busy day. Plus, it works great for weeknight dinners, potlucks or just chilling with friends.
In the next few sections, you’ll see what this dish is all about, learn the main ingredients and why they rock, get a step-by-step recipe, and find out how to tweak it for diets like gluten-free or veggie-friendly. Whether you’ve never cooked before or youre a kitchen pro, you’ll pick up tips to make your own version of this classic casserole.
What is Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a hearty dish where cooked rice meets seasoned ground beef, veggies and melted cheese all baked in the oven. The cheese gets bubbly and a bit golden, the beef stays juicy, and the rice soaks up all the flavors. It usually shows up as a main course and people love it for how warm and satisfying it is.
The common ingredients in this casserole include:
- Ground Beef: The meaty part that gives richness and flavor.
- Rice: White or brown, it makes the dish filling and soaks up the sauce.
- Cheese: Cheddar is popular because it melts good, but mozzarella or Monterey Jack work too.
- Vegetables: Onions, bell peppers and corn add color, taste and some nutrition.
- Spices and Herbs: Garlic powder, paprika and salt help bring out the flavors.
You can mix things up by using ground turkey, adding spinach or swapping cheeses. Its this kind of flexibility that’s kept people making it for years.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This casserole feels like a big, warm hug on a plate. When its cold outside or you just need something hearty after school or work, it hits the spot. The cheesy, creamy texture combined with savory beef and rice gives that cozy feeling of home.
It’s also great for families. The recipe is simple so even new cooks can handle it, and most kids and adults like the familiar flavors. You end up with a meal that brings everyone around the table without a fuss.
Because you can swap ingredients, it works for lots of diets too. Want gluten-free? Use a GF broth. Need more veggies? Throw in carrots or peas. This casserole is easy to adapt so everyone can enjoy it.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
Each part of this casserole does more than taste good. Knowing why helps you swap things out smartly and still get a tasty result.
- Ground Beef: Besides giving the dish its meaty flavor, it has iron and B vitamins that help your body make energy.
- Rice: Provides carbs to keep you going. White rice is quick, brown rice adds fiber and a nuttier taste.
- Cheese: Adds creaminess and saltiness. Cheddar gives a bold taste, mozzarella adds stretch, and Monterey Jack brings a milder flavor.
- Vegetables: Onions, peppers, corn, carrots or peas add vitamins, minerals and color to the dish.
- Spices and Herbs: Things like garlic powder and paprika add depth and make every bite more interesting.
Mixing these ingredients just right means you get a meal thats comforting and more balanced than just meat and cheese alone.
Step-by-Step Recipe Guide
Follow these steps to make your own Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. Its straightforward and works for cooks at any level.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups water or broth
Preparation Directions
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain extra fat if you want.
Step 3: Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the beef and cook about 5 minutes until they soften.
Step 4: In another pot, cook the rice following package directions. You can use broth instead of water for more flavor.
Step 5: In a big bowl, stir together the cooked beef and veggies, rice, tomatoes, corn, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper until it’s mixed well.
Step 6: Pour the mix into a greased casserole dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese all over the top.
Step 7: Bake for 25–30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are a bit golden. Let it cool a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Perfecting the Recipe
- Brown the beef well to add more flavor.
- Try different cheeses for new tastes.
- Add extra veggies like spinach or carrots to make it healthier.
- Serve with a side salad or steamed veggies to round out the meal.
Have fun with this recipe and make it your own. Each change you try will give this classic casserole its own special twist!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 9x13 inch baking dish
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice white or brown
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes undrained
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables peas, corn, carrots
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), mixed vegetables, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Transfer the beef and rice mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving.
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