Craving a weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug? This Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is exactly that—an easy, comforting dish that brings together juicy ground beef, fluffy long-grain rice, and bright tomatoes. With just 15 minutes of prep and about an hour in the oven, you’ll have a bubbling pan of happiness ready to nourish both body and soul. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The dish is beginner-friendly, so even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll breeze through the steps. And yes, it’s bound to fill your home with mouthwatering flavors that have everyone gathering around the table.
What makes this casserole a true superstar is the layering of textures and tastes. Tender beef meets aromatic onions and garlic, all simmered together in beef broth and zesty Worcestershire sauce. Uncooked rice soaks up these juices, plumping with flavor as it bakes beneath a smooth blanket of cream of mushroom soup. Finally, a generous handful of cheddar cheese melts on top, offering that gooey golden finish we all crave. With just 450 calories per serving, this dish strikes a balance between hearty and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for a family or prepping for leftovers, this casserole delivers cozy satisfaction that warms the heart and delights the palate.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GROUND BEEF & RICE CASSEROLE
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s meet the stars of this recipe. Each ingredient plays its part, from building a robust flavor base to creating that irresistible cheesy topping. Understanding their roles will help you customize the dish to your taste and even substitute items you have on hand.
- Ground beef
Brings rich, savory depth and protein. As it browns, it releases flavorful juices that soak into the rice, making every bite meaty and hearty.
- Long-grain white rice
Absorbs the delicious broth and tomato juices, yielding fluffy, distinct grains. It’s the perfect carb base for this one-dish wonder.
- Onion
Provides a sweet, aromatic foundation when sautéed. It softens and caramelizes slightly, adding complexity to the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic
Delivers a pungent kick and fragrant aroma. Just a minute of cooking releases its oils and infuses the dish with that classic garlic warmth.
- Diced tomatoes (undrained)
Offer bright acidity and a touch of sweetness. Their juices help cook the rice and balance the richness of beef and cheese.
- Cream of mushroom soup
Creates a creamy, velvety layer that ties all ingredients together. It adds an earthy undertone and guarantees a luscious texture.
- Beef broth
Deepens the savory notes and provides the liquid the rice needs to cook through. It’s a simple way to boost umami.
- Cheddar cheese
Melts into a gooey, golden crust that crowns the casserole. Its sharpness contrasts beautifully with the mild rice and creamy soup.
- Worcestershire sauce
Enhances umami with a tangy, slightly sweet complexity. A little goes a long way in rounding out the flavors.
- Salt
Balances and elevates all other ingredients. Essential for bringing out the true character of the beef and vegetables.
- Black pepper
Adds a subtle heat and earthy bite. It wakes up the palate without overpowering the dish.
- Italian seasoning
A blend of herbs—oregano, basil, thyme—that lends a Mediterranean flair. It brightens and unifies the flavors.
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Gives a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous note when sprinkled on top just before serving.
- Olive oil
Used for sautéing the aromatics. It prevents sticking and contributes a mild fruity flavor.
HOW TO MAKE GROUND BEEF & RICE CASSEROLE
Let’s roll up our sleeves and bring these ingredients together. You’ll start by building rich flavors in a skillet, then combine everything in a casserole dish for baking. The process is straightforward, but each step ensures your final dish is bursting with taste and texture.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking from the moment the casserole goes in.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until translucent, softening the onion and releasing its natural sweetness.
3. Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn but instead infuses the oil with fragrant garlic notes.
4. Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef, and cook until browned. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break up any clumps, ensuring the meat cooks evenly. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it off to avoid greasiness.
5. Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well so the rice is coated in flavorful liquid and the tomatoes are evenly distributed.
6. Add the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir again to ensure every grain of rice is bathed in seasoned broth.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch casserole dish. Cover with aluminum foil to trap steam and help the rice cook through.
8. Bake for 45 minutes, then carefully remove the foil and stir the casserole to redistribute moisture and prevent any dry spots.
9. Pour the cream of mushroom soup evenly over the top, smoothing it out to the edges. Top with shredded cheddar cheese for that irresistible melty layer.
10. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden, bubbly, and slightly crisp around the edges.
11. Remove from the oven. Let the casserole sit for 5–10 minutes before serving—this helps it set and makes it easier to serve neat portions.
12. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired, for a pop of color and fresh herb aroma.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GROUND BEEF & RICE CASSEROLE
When your casserole comes out of the oven, you’ll see that gorgeous, bubbly cheese and smell its irresistible goodness. Serving this dish is all about complementing its hearty, rich profile with fresh, vibrant sides. Whether you’re dishing it out for a casual family meal or a cozy dinner with friends, a few well-chosen sides and garnishes will take the experience to the next level. Think textures that contrast with the creamy, meaty base and flavors that brighten each bite. Below are some favorite pairings to make your casserole dinner complete.
- Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing crunch. Try arugula or mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumber.
- Pair it with steamed or roasted vegetables, such as broccoli florets or sweet carrots. Lightly season them with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice to bring out their natural sweetness.
- Offer slices of warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side for mopping up any extra sauce. A garlic herb butter spread on the rolls elevates the meal and indulges bread lovers.
- Spoon a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on each serving. The cool tang pairs perfectly with the savory beef and cheese, and you can sprinkle extra chopped parsley or chives for color.
HOW TO STORE GROUND BEEF & RICE CASSEROLE
This casserole is not just a one-and-done dinner; it shines as a make-ahead meal too. Understanding how to store it properly will preserve its flavors and textures, ensuring that every reheated portion tastes just as comforting as the first. Whether you plan to enjoy it over a few days or freeze portions for later, these methods will keep your dinner delicious and safe to eat. Proper storage also helps prevent soggy rice or a loss of that cheesy topping that makes this dish so satisfying.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container within two hours of baking. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, or microwave individual portions until heated through.
- Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Press out excess air before sealing. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- For reheating from frozen, bake covered at 350°F for 30–40 minutes, then uncover and bake another 10 minutes until bubbly. This helps the casserole heat evenly without drying out.
- Label each container with the date and contents. This simple step ensures you use older meals first and maintain the best quality in your freezer rotation.
CONCLUSION
This Ground Beef & Rice Casserole has everything you need for a comforting, satisfying dinner: savory beef, fluffy rice, zesty tomatoes, creamy mushroom soup, and melty cheddar cheese. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that takes just 15 minutes of active prep and around an hour in the oven. Perfect for family weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd, this casserole demonstrates how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that warms the soul. Don’t forget to garnish each portion with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and brightness. With its balanced flavors and easy storage options, this casserole is destined to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Feel free to print out this article and save it for later use—tuck it into your recipe binder or pin it on your kitchen bulletin board. Below, you’ll find a handy FAQ section to address any lingering questions about ingredients, substitutions, or cooking times. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave your comments, questions, or feedback so we can chat about any tweaks you made or tips you discovered along the way. Happy cooking, and here’s to many cozy dinners ahead!
Ground Beef & Rice Casserole
Description
This savory casserole combines tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and zesty tomatoes, all topped with creamy mushroom soup and melted cheese for a comfort food classic.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
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Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional minute.
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Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef, and cook until browned. Break up any clumps with a spoon, and drain excess fat if necessary.
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Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine.
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Add the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir to make sure the rice is evenly covered with liquid.
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Transfer the mixture to a 9x13-inch casserole dish. Cover with foil and place it in the preheated oven.
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Bake for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and stir the casserole.
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Pour the cream of mushroom soup evenly over the top. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese.
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Return the casserole to the oven (uncovered), and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven. Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving.
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Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Note
- Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner casserole.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- To make it creamier, stir in a little sour cream before adding the cheese topping.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a chopped bell pepper or mushrooms with the onions.
