As I stirred the bubbling pot on the stove, a wave of nostalgia washed over me—this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole was a staple in my childhood home. Cozying up with family around a warm casserole at the dinner table is something I cherish, and this one-pan wonder delivers that comfort in spades. Packed with rich flavors from French onion soup and beef consommé, this hearty dish is not just budget-friendly, but also a lifesaver on busy weeknights. The minimal prep allows you to enjoy more time with loved ones while still serving a meal that satisfies everyone. What delightful twists will you add to make it your own?
Why is this casserole a family favorite?
Simplicity at Its Best: This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is effortlessly easy to prepare, perfect for busy individuals or families looking to create a hearty meal without fuss.
Rich, Savory Flavor: Combining French onion soup and beef consommé, each bite is bursting with depth and warmth, making it truly irresistible.
One-Dish Wonder: Cleanup is a breeze! This all-in-one meal saves you precious time in the kitchen, allowing you to relax and enjoy dinner with your loved ones.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap out ground beef with turkey or chicken, or mix in your favorite veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether you’re serving family or entertaining friends, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy everyone's taste buds and leave them going back for seconds!
To compliment your casserole, try pairing it with a refreshing Sweet Pepper Salad or some delightful Overnight Cinnamon Casserole for dessert.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Ground Beef – Provides protein and rich flavor; use 85–90% lean for a perfect balance of taste and fat.
- Long-Grain White Rice – Acts as the base, absorbing delicious flavors; avoid instant rice as it will become mushy.
- French Onion Soup – Adds a deep, savory flavor that’s essential for the dish's richness.
- Beef Consommé – Offers additional beefy depth; can substitute with beef broth or mushroom soup if needed.
- Unsalted Butter – Contributes richness and moisture; place in pats for even melting.
- Chopped Parsley (optional) – Freshens and brightens the dish; a beautiful finishing touch.
Enjoy creating your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole—a truly hearty meal!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a bit of cooking spray or butter. This step ensures that your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole won’t stick to the sides, making for easy serving and cleanup after your delicious meal is ready.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until it’s nicely browned, which will take about 7-10 minutes. Make sure to break it apart with a spatula while it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat. The rich aroma of the beef should fill your kitchen, setting the stage for this hearty casserole.
Step 3: Layer the Rice
Spread the uncooked long-grain white rice evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish. This forms the base of your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, as it will absorb all the delicious flavors from the layers above. Ensure the rice is distributed evenly for consistent cooking.
Step 4: Add the Ground Beef
Next, evenly layer the cooked ground beef over the rice in the baking dish. You want to make sure the beef covers the rice completely so that every bite is packed with flavor. The combination of beef and rice will create a hearty foundation that’s the essence of this comforting casserole.
Step 5: Pour the Liquids
Pour the French onion soup and beef consommé over the beef and rice mixture, ensuring an even distribution. This will add moisture and flavor, as well as create that creamy texture in your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. Give it a gentle shake to make sure everything is combined well.
Step 6: Butter It Up
Scatter small pats of unsalted butter over the top of the mixture. The butter will melt during baking, enriching the dish with a lovely, creamy finish. This step adds an extra level of indulgence to your casserole, ensuring it is as rich and comforting as possible.
Step 7: Bake Until Perfect
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 60–75 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. You will know it's ready when the top is golden and bubbly, releasing a delicious aroma throughout your kitchen.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
After baking, let the casserole cool for a few minutes before removing the foil. To give your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole a touch of color and freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve it warm and enjoy the comforting flavors that will surely bring smiles around your table!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Cover Tightly: Ensure your casserole is tightly covered with foil during baking. This locks in moisture, allowing for perfectly tender rice.
- Cheesy Finish: For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. It adds a delightful gooey layer!
- Vegetable Boost: Consider mixing in sautéed mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers before baking. They enhance both nutrition and texture in your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole.
- Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—it's a great make-ahead option!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Fridge: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm in the microwave or oven until heated through, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the casserole and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours, then simply pop it in the oven when ready to cook!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Variations
Feel free to let your creativity roam! These delightful swaps and additions can elevate the comforting flavors of your casserole.
- Turkey or Chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter but equally flavorful dish. This change keeps the heartiness while reducing fat content.
- Veggie Power: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for an extra boost of nutrition and vibrant color; they’re sure to please the family! The incorporation of veggies adds a lovely texture and fresh taste to your dish.
- Spice It Up: For a touch of heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes; it introduces an exciting kick that will bring a new layer of flavor to the casserole!
- Creamy Twist: Mix in a cup of cream cheese or sour cream for a rich, creamy texture that makes each bite even more satisfying; the warmth of the dish melts the cream beautifully.
- Herb Infusion: Consider incorporating fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano for added fragrance and flavor; they truly awaken the taste buds! A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley on top can also visually elevate your casserole.
- Cheesy Layers: Top the finished casserole with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for an extra cheesy finish; cheese lovers will adore it!
- Crunchy Topping: Add a layer of fried onions or crushed crackers on top for a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. This little bit of extra texture will make your casserole stand out.
As you prepare this cozy meal, why not pair it with a zesty Sweet Pepper Salad for a refreshing side? Or indulge your sweet tooth afterwards with some heavenly Black Raspberry Cookies for dessert!
Make Ahead Options
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of baking, then tightly cover the baking dish with foil and refrigerate it. This not only saves you time on busy weeknights but also allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you're ready to serve, remove it from the fridge and bake it straight from cold, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. This way, your casserole will be just as delicious and comforting, perfect for a hassle-free dinner that your family will adore!
What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Each bite of this casserole brings warmth and joy, inviting you to make it a centerpiece for a comforting family meal.
- Garlic Bread: Perfectly crispy and buttery, it’s great for sopping up delicious casserole remnants on your plate.
- Sweet Pepper Salad: A refreshing contrast, this vibrant salad adds a burst of color and crunch, balancing the dish's richness.
- Steamed Broccoli: Tender, bright green florets add a healthy touch, bringing in texture and nutrients alongside the hearty casserole.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with parmesan and croutons creates a satisfying side that enhances the meal's flavors beautifully.
- Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess brighten every bite, offering a lovely contrast to the creamy casserole.
- Apple Crisp: End your meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert; its comforting flavors will complement the savory main dish.
- Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine elevates the flavors, bringing out the savory notes in the casserole while adding sophistication to your dinner.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ground beef for this casserole?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for ground beef that is 85–90% lean. This allows for a good balance of taste and fat while avoiding excessive grease in your casserole.
How should I store leftovers from the casserole?
Very simple! Make sure to let your cheesy ground beef and rice casserole cool completely before placing it in airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days, giving you a delicious meal for busy days.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Of course! To freeze, portion out your casserole into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What if my casserole is too dry after baking?
No worries! If your casserole turns out dry, it is likely due to overbaking or not enough liquid. Next time, check at the 60-minute mark. If it seems dry, you can add a splash of beef consommé or water before serving to add moisture.
Is this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can customize your cheesy ground beef and rice casserole to fit various dietary needs. For those who need a variety of proteins, ground turkey or chicken makes a delicious alternative. Just remember to check the labels of any packaged ingredients for allergens.
How do I ensure my rice cooks perfectly in the casserole?
Great question! For perfectly cooked rice, make sure to spread it evenly across the bottom of the baking dish before layering the ground beef and liquid. Covering it tightly with foil during baking also helps trap steam, ensuring the rice cooks thoroughly and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: A Comforting Weeknight Delight
Equipment
- large skillet
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- aluminum foil
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 1 lb Ground Beef Use 85–90% lean for balance.
- 2 cups Long-Grain White Rice Avoid instant rice.
- 1 can French Onion Soup Adds savory flavor.
- 1 can Beef Consommé Can substitute with beef broth.
- 4 tbls Unsalted Butter Cut into pats for even melting.
- ¼ cup Chopped Parsley Optional, for garnish.
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef for 7-10 minutes and drain excess fat.
- Spread uncooked rice evenly in the greased baking dish.
- Layer the cooked ground beef over the rice in the baking dish.
- Pour the French onion soup and beef consommé over the mixture evenly.
- Scatter pats of unsalted butter on top.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake for 60–75 minutes.
- Let cool slightly, then garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
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