Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
A hearty, comforting dish that combines ground beef, rice, and cheese into one easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
- 1/2 cup milk or beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk or broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In the prepared baking dish, combine cooked rice, beef mixture, half the shredded cheese, and the sauce. Mix well to combine.
Baking
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a crispy cheese topping.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat, but you can also opt for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Feel free to mix in some vegetables like peas or bell peppers to add more nutrients and flavor. If you love extra cheese, add more cheese on top before baking. You can easily customize this casserole; try using different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist. You can also substitute the cream soup with a homemade cheese sauce for a creamier texture.