A warm, hearty casserole is the kind of meal that brings comfort to any table. This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole is creamy, satisfying, and filled with flavors that blend beautifully as it bakes. With tender rice, seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a rich, comforting texture, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prep. It’s the kind of recipe that feels homemade, wholesome, and deeply comforting without requiring complicated steps.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Instructions
Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once the meat starts to brown, add the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until the onion softens and the beef is fully cooked. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too heavy.
Add paprika, pepper, salt, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Stir well to distribute the seasoning evenly. Reduce the heat slightly and add the uncooked rice directly into the skillet, stirring to coat it with the seasoned beef mixture. This helps the rice absorb flavor as it cooks.
Pour in the beef broth and allow everything to simmer gently. Cover the skillet and let the rice cook until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the rice is soft and the liquid is absorbed, turn off the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
Transfer the mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly. Combine the mozzarella and cheddar cheese, then sprinkle generously over the top of the casserole. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Why This Casserole Works
This casserole succeeds because it uses basic pantry ingredients but combines them in a way that feels both rich and comforting. The rice absorbs the broth and seasonings, giving every bite deep flavor. The ground beef adds hearty texture and protein, while the cream and cheese bring everything together with a creamy, luxurious finish.
Unlike casseroles that require pre-cooking several components separately, this recipe builds flavor in the same skillet from start to finish. The beef, onions, garlic, rice, and seasonings work together to create a base that only improves during baking. This method not only enhances taste but also reduces cleanup.
The cheese blend of cheddar and mozzarella creates both stretchiness and sharpness. Cheddar gives the casserole a rich, bold flavor, while mozzarella adds the perfect melt. Together, they form the signature bubbly top that makes this dish look irresistible coming out of the oven.
Tips for Best Results
If you want even more flavor, consider browning the beef deeply before adding onions. Darker browning means richer taste. You can also swap beef broth for chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand, though beef broth keeps the flavor deeper and more savory.
Vegetables can be added as well. Frozen peas, diced carrots, or chopped bell peppers mix in easily and add color. For a slightly spicy twist, a pinch of crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce can brighten the dish without overwhelming it.
For the creamiest texture, use heavy cream instead of milk. Milk works, but heavy cream creates a richer finish. You can also add a spoonful of sour cream for extra tang and smoothness.
When baking, keep an eye on the cheese. You want melted and slightly golden, not overly browned. If the top starts to darken too quickly, cover lightly with foil.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is filling enough to serve as a complete meal. However, pairing it with a simple side can elevate the experience. A fresh green salad with lemon dressing adds crisp contrast. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans also complement the dish beautifully.
Garlic bread or dinner rolls work well for those who enjoy something to scoop up the creamy sauce. For a refreshing finish, sliced cucumbers or a light fruit salad can balance the richness.
Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about this casserole is how well it stores. You can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making reheated portions taste as good as the original meal.
For freezing, allow the casserole to cool completely before sealing and freezing. It can last up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight and warm in the oven covered until hot. This method preserves the creamy texture and keeps the cheese melted and soft.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re feeding a family, cooking for guests, or preparing meals ahead of time, this casserole fits the occasion. It is easy enough for beginners yet impressive in flavor. It’s the type of meal that brings everyone to the table excited to eat, and the leftovers—if there are any—are just as delicious.
Its versatility means you can customize it to your taste while keeping the creamy, cheesy base intact. It’s affordable, filling, and comforting in every sense, making it a dish worth saving and returning to again and again.