Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Name: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes

I love cozying up with my family over a warm, comforting dish like Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole. This recipe has become a staple in our household because it strikes the perfect balance between hearty and cheesy goodness. Made with ground beef, tender rice, and a blend of cheeses, it’s a complete meal in one pot. What's even better is how easily it all comes together—you can have dinner on the table in about an hour, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-20T11:17:27.821Z

From the moment I first tasted this Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole, I was hooked. The comforting aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes, making it hard to resist. I remember one chilly evening, I decided to experiment by adding a little more cheese than usual; the result was spectacular! The extra creaminess made every bite taste indulgent.

Another tip I discovered is that letting it sit for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven can enhance the flavors even more. The flavors meld beautifully, and the texture becomes even more delightful. It’s these little nuances that I always cherish when preparing this dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty ingredients make it a filling meal for the whole family
Creamy, cheesy layers that make every serving irresistible
Perfect for meal prep—just reheat and enjoy!

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of the Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole is undoubtedly the combination of ground beef and rice. The beef not only lends a rich flavor but also provides protein, making the casserole a hearty, filling dish. When browning the beef, ensure it's done at medium heat to get a good sear, which adds flavor to the dish. Don't shy away from using ground turkey or chicken if you're looking for a lighter alternative; they work wonderfully in this recipe too.

The cheeses in this casserole blend beautifully to create that irresistible cheesy pull. I use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for their contrasting flavors—sharpness from the cheddar and the luscious stretch from mozzarella. Feel free to swap in other varieties like Monterey Jack for an extra kick or a pepper jack if you prefer a spicy touch. Just remember to shred your cheese from a block, as pre-shredded versions often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting.

Tips for Perfect Casserole

Making sure your rice cooks evenly is key to a perfect casserole. Using parboiled or instant rice can reduce cooking time and ensure a more consistent texture. If using brown rice, increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes since it takes longer to cook. Keep an eye on the casserole during the final stages of baking; if the top is becoming too golden, you can cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the rice finishes cooking.

To enhance the flavors, I recommend adding extras such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even a spoonful of hot sauce to the mix. These additions can infuse your casserole with layers of flavor that elevate the dish further. If you're preparing this for a family with varying tastes, consider offering toppings such as sliced jalapeños or additional cheese to let everyone customize their servings.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process seamless!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups beef broth
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Once you have everything ready, you're set to create a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a smooth cooking experience!

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the diced onion and minced garlic until the meat is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the cooked beef, uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.

Prepare for Baking

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Cover the top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cheese is bubbly.

Rest and Serve

Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes for easier serving!

Enjoy your delicious casserole warm, straight from the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding diced bell peppers or jalapeños into the beef mixture.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it the night before and keep it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from drying out. If you're storing it for more than a day, consider freezing it. Just bake it at a lower temperature (325°F or 160°C) for about an hour when you're ready to cook it from frozen.

When reheating leftovers, I recommend covering the casserole with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave single portions, but be sure to add a splash of water to keep the rice tender and fluffy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your casserole with a fresh side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A zesty coleslaw can also work beautifully to bring a crunchy texture. To add a bit more flavor, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or chives just before serving—this not only adds color but enhances the overall experience with fresh notes.

Leftovers are fantastic in a wrap! Just take some of the casserole, add it to a tortilla with some fresh greens, and you've got a delicious lunch option. You could even turn it into a baked dish for the next day by layering more cheese and broiling for a few minutes until bubbly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but be aware that you will need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Can I substitute ground beef for ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and still works well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

→ Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it tightly and store it for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra time as needed.