Cheesy Ground Beef Rice has been my go-to weeknight meal for years, and it never disappoints! I remember the first time I made it, the aroma of savory beef, creamy soup, and melting cheddar filled my kitchen, promising a delicious meal. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone in the family happy, a true comfort food classic. This simple Ground Beef and Cheese Rice Skillet is so satisfying and incredibly easy to whip up, making it the perfect candidate for an Easy Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Recipe. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice
This dish is an absolute winner for so many reasons! Here’s why it’s become a staple in my kitchen:
- Incredible flavor: The combination of savory ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and gooey cheddar cheese is pure comfort.
- Lightning-fast prep: You can have this ready for the oven in just 10 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- Budget-friendly: It uses simple, affordable ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store.
- Family-approved: This is a truly Kid-friendly Cheesy Ground Beef Rice that even the pickiest eaters will devour.
- So satisfying: It’s hearty and filling, making it a complete meal on its own.
- Super simple: Seriously, it’s a Simple Cheesy Ground Beef Rice that requires minimal effort.
- Versatile: You can easily adapt it with different veggies or cheeses to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this amazing Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole with Cheddar Cheese. You’ll need:
- 680 grams ground beef – I like to use 80/20 for the best flavor and moisture.
- 400 grams cooked white rice – leftover rice works perfectly here!
- 305 grams condensed cream of mushroom soup – this is the secret to its creamy texture.
- 120 millilitres whole milk – adds to the creaminess and helps bind everything together.
- 150 grams shredded cheddar cheese, divided – you’ll mix some in and sprinkle some on top for that perfect cheesy crust.
- 5 millilitres Worcestershire sauce – for a little depth of savory flavor.
- 1.25 millilitres garlic powder – because garlic makes everything better.
- 1.25 millilitres onion powder – enhances the savory notes.
- Salt and black pepper to taste – always season to your preference!
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Bake
Whipping up this delicious Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Bake is incredibly straightforward. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create such a comforting and flavorful meal. Let’s get started on this easy recipe that makes a fantastic One Pot Cheesy Ground Beef Rice!
- Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly and the cheese gets perfectly melty.
- Step 2: Grab a large skillet and cook your 680 grams ground beef over medium heat. You want it to be fully browned and no longer pink. As it cooks, you’ll notice a rich, savory aroma filling your kitchen.
- Step 3: Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess fat. This step helps keep the casserole from being too greasy.
- Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned beef with the 400 grams cooked white rice, 305 grams condensed cream of mushroom soup, and 120 millilitres whole milk. This blend creates the base for our Creamy Cheesy Ground Beef Rice.
- Step 5: Add 100 grams of the shredded cheddar cheese, the 5 millilitres Worcestershire sauce, 1.25 millilitres garlic powder, 1.25 millilitres onion powder, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper to the bowl. Mix everything gently until it’s just combined. Don’t overmix, or the texture can become dense.
- Step 6: Spread this wonderful mixture evenly into a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish. Try to get it as level as possible for even baking.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the remaining 50 grams of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This will create a beautiful, bubbly, cheesy crust that you just can’t resist.
- Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is fully melted and the edges of the casserole are bubbling hot.
- Step 9: Let your finished Cheesy Ground Beef Rice cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit, making it easier to scoop and serve.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Ground Beef Rice
Want to elevate your Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole? I’ve picked up a few tricks over the years that make a big difference. Follow these tips for a truly amazing dish!
- Don’t skip draining the beef fat; it keeps the casserole from becoming greasy and heavy.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses, like cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- If your rice is a bit dry, adding an extra splash of milk or a tablespoon of sour cream can boost the creaminess.
- Letting the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve neat portions.
What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Ground Beef Rice?
The real magic in this Best Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Recipe lies in the combination of cream of mushroom soup and milk. This duo creates an incredibly creamy texture that coats every grain of rice and piece of beef, making it super satisfying. For more creamy dinner ideas, check out these dinner recipes.
Can I make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Ground Beef Rice?
A couple of common issues are a dry casserole or bland flavor. To avoid dryness, ensure you use enough liquid (soup and milk) and don’t overbake it. For flavor, always season generously with salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder, and don’t forget that splash of Worcestershire sauce! Learning about proper seasoning can greatly improve your cooking; consider reading up on how to season food.
Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef Rice
This comforting Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few simple sides to make it a complete meal. I love serving it with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette; the crispness and acidity cut through the richness of the casserole perfectly.
Another great option is some steamed or roasted broccoli or green beans. These veggies add a nice color and a healthy balance to the dish. For a truly hearty meal, consider serving it alongside some crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any extra cheesy goodness. It’s the perfect example of a delicious, satisfying Ground Beef Rice Casserole Cheesy that the whole family will enjoy.
Nutrition Facts for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving of this delicious Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole. It’s a hearty dish that provides a good balance of protein and carbohydrates.
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Protein: 25 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 750 milligrams
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Leftovers of this amazing Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole Recipe are just as delicious as the original! Once it’s cooled down completely, which usually takes about an hour, you can store it properly. I like to portion it into airtight containers. This helps maintain its freshness and prevents any freezer burn if you decide to freeze it.
For everyday storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to reheat, you have a couple of great options. You can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, or if you have a larger amount, pop it back into a 175°C (350°F) oven for about 15-20 minutes until it’s heated through and bubbly again. For longer storage, this casserole freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped! For more make-ahead meal ideas, consider these breakfast recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Ground Beef Rice
What is Cheesy Ground Beef Rice?
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice is a comforting and simple casserole made with seasoned ground beef, cooked rice, and plenty of melted cheese, usually bound together with a creamy soup base like cream of mushroom. It’s a hearty, family-friendly meal that’s incredibly satisfying.
How to make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice?
Making it is super easy! You’ll typically brown ground beef, then combine it with cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, seasonings, and cheese in a baking dish. Bake until bubbly and golden. It’s a straightforward process, perfect for a weeknight dinner. If you’re looking for other easy weeknight meals, this Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet is another great option.
Can I add vegetables to Cheesy Ground Beef Rice?
Absolutely! It’s a fantastic base for adding veggies. Peas, corn, diced carrots, or even chopped broccoli work wonderfully. Just stir them in with the beef and rice mixture before baking for extra flavor and nutrition.
What kind of cheese is best for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice?
Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, offering that perfect sharp, melty goodness. However, you can also try a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or even add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor. The key is using a cheese that melts well.
Variations of Cheesy Ground Beef Rice You Can Try
While this classic recipe is amazing as is, I love experimenting with different twists to keep things exciting! You can easily adapt this dish to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a touch of freshness and acidity, try adding a can of diced tomatoes to the mix, creating a delicious Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole with Tomatoes.
If you’re looking to sneak in some extra veggies, stirring in a cup of steamed or frozen Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole with Broccoli is a fantastic option. For a lighter version, you could experiment with ground turkey instead of beef, or even try a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed. The possibilities are endless for making this dish your own! For more vegetable-focused dishes, explore these appetizer recipes.
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Cheesy Ground Beef Rice: 10-Min Prep Comfort
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting and easy casserole made with ground beef, rice, and cheese, perfect for a family meal. This cheesy ground beef rice bake is simple to prepare and a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 680 grams ground beef
- 400 grams cooked white rice
- 305 grams condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 120 millilitres whole milk
- 150 grams shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 5 millilitres Worcestershire sauce
- 1.25 millilitres garlic powder
- 1.25 millilitres onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is fully browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the cooked beef.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned beef, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 100 grams of the cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the mixture evenly into a 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining 50 grams of cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is hot and bubbling.
- Allow the cheesy ground beef rice to cool slightly before serving warm.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or corn for added nutrition.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Sodium: 750 milligrams
- Fat: 25 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35 grams
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Protein: 25 grams
- Cholesterol: 90 milligrams