Craving a mouthwatering comfort food that will have your family begging for seconds? Look no further than this irresistible Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole! In just 45 minutes, you can transform simple ingredients into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that combines hearty ground beef, fluffy rice, and melted cheddar into the ultimate one-dish wonder. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a home cook seeking a crowd-pleasing meal, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food sensation!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook the beef, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it is browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the cooked ground beef. Stir well to combine the seasonings evenly with the meat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the uncooked rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix until well combined.
- In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, layer the seasoned ground beef evenly across the bottom.
- Pour the rice mixture over the ground beef, spreading it evenly to cover the meat.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture while baking.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Return the casserole to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to serve.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole!
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider using seasoned ground beef or adding diced onions and bell peppers when browning the meat.
- Use long-grain white rice for the best texture and to prevent the casserole from becoming too mushy.
- Make sure to drain excess fat from the ground beef to keep the casserole from becoming greasy.
- For a crispy top, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after adding the cheese (watch carefully to prevent burning).
- This dish freezes beautifully! Prepare the casserole, cool completely, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Customize the recipe by using different types of cheese like monterey jack or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and easily reheated in the microwave or oven.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 263kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 57mg
