Indulge in a Deliciously Easy Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe Today!

Photo byNaomi Madison

There’s something magical about a hearty casserole bubbling in the oven, filling the kitchen with savory aromas. The Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect dish to satisfy those comfort food cravings, combining rich flavors with simple ingredients that come together effortlessly. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to make, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekends with family.

Imagine layers of tender ground beef, creamy rice, and a medley of mixed vegetables, all topped with gooey, melted sharp cheddar cheese. Each bite is a warm, cheesy delight that hits all the right notes—savory, creamy, and just the right amount of spice from paprika and Italian seasoning. What makes this dish truly special is its versatility. It’s a one-pan wonder that not only saves time but also makes cleanup a breeze.

The star of this casserole is the ground beef, perfectly seasoned and paired with a blend of garlic, onions, and frozen mixed vegetables. The cream of celery soup and beef stock form the base of a rich, flavorful sauce, while instant rice adds texture and substance. Finally, the sharp cheddar cheese topping melts to a golden perfection, adding a layer of creaminess to every spoonful. Whether you're serving this to a hungry family or preparing it ahead for a week's worth of meals, this casserole is bound to become a favorite.

Recipe: Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small sweet onion, small diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (10.5-ounce) cans cream of celery soup
• 1 ½ cups beef stock
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup instant rice
• 12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Set it aside.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat. Break up the beef into crumbles and stir frequently until fully cooked and the onions are softened, which should take about 10 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.
4. Stir in the cream of celery soup, beef stock, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
5. Add the instant rice and frozen mixed vegetables to the mixture, stirring until everything is evenly distributed.
6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
7. Top the casserole with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and cover the dish with nonstick foil.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes until bubbly and the cheese is fully melted.
9. Remove the foil and place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes to brown the cheese lightly. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
10. Optionally, garnish with fresh or dried parsley before serving.

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, or you can keep the leftovers to enjoy later. The mix of textures from the beef and vegetables, combined with the creamy rice and melted cheese, creates a hearty and satisfying meal.

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or a dish to bring to a potluck, this casserole checks all the boxes. Plus, with its simple ingredients and easy steps, you can have a delicious homemade meal ready without spending too much time in the kitchen. Just prep, bake, and enjoy!

Here are some reliable sources where you can find more details and variations on the Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole recipe:

1. The Cozy Cook offers a hearty version of the casserole featuring ground beef, beef broth, and cheddar cheese with tips for making the dish ahead of time and freezing leftovers. It's a great family-friendly option​(The Cozy Cook).
2. Spend With Pennies provides an easy-to-follow recipe with options to customize the casserole using ingredients like frozen mixed vegetables and various types of cheese​(Spend With Pennies).
3. SideChef presents a budget-friendly take on this casserole with clear instructions and nutrition facts, making it a great resource if you're looking for something easy and cost-effective​(SideChef).

Feel free to explore these recipes to find the version that best suits your tastes and kitchen needs!