Are you ready for a dish that combines the hearty flavors of ground beef with the creamy goodness of melted cheese, all nestled atop a bed of perfectly cooked rice? Our Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is about to become your go-to comfort dish for family dinners, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. Let’s dive into the world of cheesy, beefy, and absolutely delightful casserole magic!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Equipments
- Casserole dish
- Skillet
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing spoon
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole – Step By Step
Step 1 – Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is nicely browned and fully cooked. Ensure all the pink is gone, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. This step is crucial for building a rich flavor base for the casserole. Once cooked, drain the excess fat and set the beef aside. Cleanliness and flavor retention are key here, as no one wants a greasy casserole!
Step 2 – Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, add chopped onions and minced garlic into the mix. Sauté them over medium heat until the onions become translucent and fragrant – about 5 minutes. The onions and garlic infuse the beef with a sweet, aromatic layer, elevating the dish beyond just plain ground beef.
Step 3 – Prepare the Rice
While the onions are cooking, bring a medium-sized saucepan to a boil and add rice with the beef broth. Cover and simmer on low heat until the rice absorbs all the broth, which should take 15–20 minutes. Cooking rice in broth adds depth, enhancing the flavor profile of the entire casserole dish.
Step 4 – Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together the cooked ground beef, sautéed onions and garlic, prepared rice, cream of mushroom soup, and peas. Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. This is your chance to truly make the dish your own, with flavorful seasoning ensuring each bite bursts with home-cooked goodness.
Step 5 – Assemble the Casserole
Transfer the mixture into a lightly greased casserole dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese on top. The cheese layer ensures a gooey, irresistible texture that hits all the right comforting notes once baked.
Step 6 – Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, developing a golden crust. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool briefly before serving – don’t worry, everyone will be salivating at the sight!
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Serve this cheesy delight with a side salad or warm bread to soak up all the juicy flavors. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or as the centerpiece for holiday gatherings!
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For additional flavor, consider adding mushrooms or bell peppers. Want a spicier kick? Dash in some red pepper flakes. This recipe is highly adaptable to suit your flavor preferences and dietary needs.
High on Protein: A Power-Packed Version of Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
If you’re on the lookout for a protein-heavy version of this delicious recipe, we’ve got you covered! By incorporating extra lean ground beef and adding in protein-rich legumes like black beans or lentils, you can enhance protein content while keeping the dish flavorful.
Consider topping the casserole with a mixture of low-fat Greek yogurt and cheese. This provides a zesty twist, enhancing protein while adding a creamy and delicious topping.
A Low Carb Twist: Cheesy Ground Beef Mexcian Casserole
For those following a low carb diet, rice alternatives like cauliflower or broccoli rice are a game changer. You can add these instead of long-grain rice and still enjoy the casserole’s authentic taste.
Amp up flavors with jalapeño slices and avocado. This swaps out extra carbs while still delivering the robust, cheesy harmony of flavors we’re all after.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers? Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For long-term storage, wrap individual portions and freeze for up to a month – perfect for meal prepping!
FAQs
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and bake just before serving.
- Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchinis add great flavor and nutrition.
- How do I make it dairy-free? Swap cheese for a vegan alternative and use coconut cream instead of cream of mushroom soup.
- How can I enhance its flavor? Add spices like paprika or cumin, or splash in some Worcestershire sauce for extra zest.
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Instructions
Steps
- In a skillet, cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onions are translucent.
- In a saucepan, bring the rice and beef broth to a boil. Simmer until rice is cooked.
- Combine cooked beef, sautéed onions, cooked rice, cream soup, peas, and seasonings in a bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly.