Imagine a warm, comforting dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals and family gatherings. A cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is just that. It’s a classic comfort food that you can customize with your favorite ingredients. This casserole is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ground beef recipes are versatile and can be adapted to various cooking methods and ingredients. You can explore different healthy ground beef and rice casserole recipes to find the one that suits your needs.
Preparing this cozy meal is simple and convenient. It takes only 40 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook. You can have a delicious, homemade casserole on the table in under an hour. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a hearty dish for a gathering, a cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is an excellent choice.
You can also consider healthy ground beef and rice casserole recipes. This way, you can make a nutritious and flavorful meal.
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Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is the ultimate comfort food—rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. Made with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheese, it’s an easy, one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Customize it with your favorite ingredients for a Mexican-style twist or a ranch-flavored version. Simple to prepare, easy to store, and even better the next day!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white, jasmine, or brown)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz, drained)
- 1 can black beans (15 oz, drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon cumin (optional, for a smoky touch)
- 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning (for a ranch-flavored twist)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add onion and garlic to the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Season & combine: Stir in paprika, cumin, salt, black pepper, and ranch seasoning (if using). Mix well.
- Add tomatoes, beans, corn, and broth: Stir everything together and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix in the rice and sour cream, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble in baking dish: Spread the mixture into the prepared dish and top with shredded cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- Make it healthier: Use lean ground turkey, brown rice, and low-fat cheese.
- For a Mexican twist, add taco seasoning and replace ranch seasoning with chili powder.
- For a ranch-flavored casserole, increase ranch seasoning and top with crushed crispy fried onions.
- Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Bake at 325°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Main Headings
The Perfect Comfort Food for Your Family
Comfort food like easy cheesy ground beef and rice casserole brings families together. It’s a classic recipe loved by many. It’s simple to make and perfect for busy families.
Casseroles are a favorite for comfort food, with over 60% using common ingredients. They’re great for family dinners or gatherings. With a serving size of 6, they’re perfect for feeding a crowd.
Why Casseroles Are Ideal for Family Meals
Casseroles are easy to make, with over 50% needing little prep time. They’re ideal for busy families. Plus, you can make them ahead of time and store them for later.
- Easy to prepare and cook
- Can be made in advance and refrigerated or frozen
- Perfect for busy families or special occasions
- Caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences
When looking for ground beef recipes, casseroles are a great choice. They’re comforting and easy to make. Try an easy cheesy ground beef and rice casserole for your next family meal. Your family will love it.
Essential Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
To make a tasty mexican beef and rice casserole or a cheesy ranch ground beef and rice casserole, you need the right ingredients. The main parts are ground beef, rice, and cheese.
Choosing the right ground beef is key. Go for a leaner option like 80/20 or 85/15 to cut down on fat. For rice, jasmine or any white or brown rice works well.
Ground Beef Selection Tips
When picking ground beef, think about the fat content and where the meat comes from. Adding taco seasoning can also give it a mexican flavor.
Best Rice Options
For the best results, pick a rice that cooks well and has a nice texture. Jasmine or any white or brown rice is a good choice.
Cheese Varieties to Consider
For cheese, you can choose from cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both. For a cheesy ranch ground beef and rice casserole, ranch-flavored cheese or ranch seasoning in the cheese is great.
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup of uncooked rice
- 2 cups of shredded cheese
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup of frozen corn
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 pound |
| Rice | 1 cup |
| Shredded Cheese | 2 cups |
Kitchen Tools and Equipment Needed
To make a tasty cheesy ground beef and rice casserole, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more fun. This way, you can focus on making a delicious meal with your favorite ground beef recipes.
Some of the essential tools and equipment you’ll need include:
- Large skillet for browning the ground beef
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate measurements
- Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing and stirring
- 9×13 inch baking dish for cooking the casserole
- Oven for baking the casserole at 350°F
With these tools and equipment, you’ll be ready to make a delicious cheesy ground beef and rice casserole. Use fresh ingredients and follow food safety guidelines for a safe and tasty meal.
Having the right kitchen tools and equipment makes cooking ground beef recipes easy. This makes cooking a breeze.
| Tool/Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Large Skillet | For browning the ground beef |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | For accurate measurements |
| Wooden Spoon or Spatula | For mixing and stirring |
| 9×13 inch Baking Dish | For cooking the casserole |
| Oven | For baking the casserole at 350°F |
Preparation Steps Before Cooking
To make a tasty and healthy ground beef and rice casserole, follow some key steps. Start by measuring your ingredients correctly. This ensures the dish tastes right and feels just right.
Don’t skip precooking the rice. It’s a crucial step that many miss. Precooking helps control the dish’s moisture, keeping it from getting too wet. It’s a must for a healthy casserole.
Properly Measuring Ingredients
Measuring ingredients is simple but can be tricky. Use a digital scale or measuring cups for accuracy. This way, you get the perfect mix of flavors in your casserole.
Precooking the Rice
Precooking the rice is a small step that makes a big difference. Just cook it a bit less than the package says. This way, the rice soaks up the flavors well without getting mushy. Follow these tips to make a delicious and healthy casserole.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
To make an easy cheesy ground beef and rice casserole, follow these simple steps. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up as it cooks.
Once the ground beef is browned, add the diced onion, salt, pepper, and onion soup mix. Cook until the onion is translucent. Then, stir in the cooked rice, beef broth, and sour cream. Let it simmer until the liquid is absorbed.
Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top it with shredded mozzarella cheese and crispy fried onions. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Here is a summary of the cooking instructions in a step-by-step format:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)
- Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat
- Add diced onion, salt, pepper, and onion soup mix to the skillet
- Stir in cooked rice, beef broth, and sour cream
- Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and crispy fried onions
- Cover and bake for 35-40 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes
By following these easy cooking instructions, you can create a delicious and satisfying easy cheesy ground beef and rice casserole. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Onion | 1 medium yellow onion, diced |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Onion soup mix | 1 oz |
| Instant white rice | 2 cups (uncooked) |
| Beef broth | 2 cups |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese | 2 cups (shredded) |
| Crispy fried onions | 1 cup |
Making It Healthier: Smart Substitutions
Want to make your favorite dishes healthier? Start by choosing leaner ground beef. This cuts down on fat. Adding veggies also boosts nutrients and fiber.
Try using whole grain rice instead of white rice. It’s packed with more fiber and nutrients. Don’t forget to experiment with spices for flavor without extra salt or sugar.
Lower-Fat Options
Looking for leaner ground beef alternatives? Here are some options:
- 99% lean ground turkey
- 93% or 95% lean ground beef
These choices can make your meal healthier by reducing fat.
Adding Vegetables
Vegetables add nutrients and fiber to your casserole. Consider adding:
- Peas
- Carrots
- Green beans
Try different veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
Whole Grain Alternatives
Switch to whole grain rice for more fiber and nutrients. You can also explore quinoa or brown rice for variety.
| Ingredient | Traditional Option | Healthier Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | Regular ground beef | 99% lean ground turkey or 93% lean ground beef |
| Rice | White rice | Whole grain rice or quinoa |
| Vegetables | None | Peas, carrots, green beans, or other vegetables |
Mexican-Style Variation
Want to spice up your cheesy ground beef and rice casserole? Try a mexican beef and rice casserole. It brings the bold flavors of Mexico to your table. You’ll find spices, cheeses, and more that are typical of mexican cuisine.
To make a mexican-style casserole, add fiery spices like cumin, chili powder, and paprika to the ground beef. Don’t forget diced onions, garlic, and bell peppers for crunch and flavor. Use cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for a creamy, melty texture.
Other ingredients to add include:
- Diced tomatoes
- Black beans, cooked and drained
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Sliced jalapenos
These additions will give your casserole a unique taste. It’s perfect for those wanting to try something new. With its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to be a hit at home.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Cooked rice | 2 cups |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Monterey Jack cheese | 1 cup |
Ranch-Flavored Version
Make a cheesy ranch ground beef and rice casserole for a unique taste. It’s great for ranch lovers. With the right ingredients and layering, you’ll get a tasty dish.
For a ranch flavor, you’ll need ranch seasoning, sour cream, and shredded cheese. These add a rich, creamy taste to your casserole.
Special Ingredients Needed
You’ll need ground beef, rice, and ranch seasoning to start. Add diced veggies like bell peppers and onions for extra flavor. Use cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for the best taste.
Mixing and Layering Tips
Brown the ground beef well before mixing it with rice and ranch seasoning. Layer it in a dish: beef, then rice, and top with cheese. Add sour cream for creaminess.
Try adding diced tomatoes or different cheeses for more flavor. Be creative to find your favorite mix. Your family will enjoy this unique casserole.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Storing and reheating your ground beef recipes is key to keeping them safe and tasty. You can refrigerate or freeze your casserole. Refrigeration is best for 3-4 days. Freezing keeps it safe for up to three months at 0°F (-18°C) or below.
Reheating is important for the texture and flavor of your dish. The safe temperature for reheating is at least 165°F (74°C). You can reheat it in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop. Here are some tips:
- Reheat in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for 20-30 minutes, depending on the thickness of the casserole.
- Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per portion, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out.
- Reheat on the stovetop by steaming the casserole with a little water, stirring regularly until hot.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your ground beef and rice casserole safely. Always check the internal temperature and reheat to at least 165°F (74°C) to avoid foodborne illness.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
When making an easy cheesy ground beef and rice casserole, it’s key to know common mistakes. Overcooking the rice is a big one. It makes the dish dry and not tasty.
Another mistake is not browning the ground beef enough. This can make the casserole taste bland. To fix this, cook the ground beef until it’s browned well. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Other mistakes to watch out for include:
- Not seasoning the casserole enough, which can lead to a bland taste
- Using low-quality ingredients, such as old or stale spices, which can affect the flavor of the dish
- Not following the recipe instructions carefully, which can result in a casserole that’s overcooked or undercooked
To make a tasty easy cheesy ground beef and rice casserole, avoid these mistakes. Always follow the recipe, use good ingredients, and cook until it’s golden brown and bubbly.
Conclusion: Mastering Your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Making the perfect ground beef recipes like this cheesy casserole takes practice. But it’s worth it. By choosing quality ingredients, seasoning right, and following the steps, you’re on your way to mastering the dish.
Don’t be shy to try new things. Add your own twist with different cheeses or a Mexican twist. The goal is to have fun and learn as you go.
With each try, you’ll get better and find your own way. Soon, this casserole will be a hit with your family. So, get ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
