Name: Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked); 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp paprika (optional); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

There’s something truly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole straight from the oven. This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the kind of dish that brings people together, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma and satisfying even the heartiest appetites. It’s rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor—perfect for a family dinner, a potluck, or just when you’re craving something cozy.

I love how this casserole combines simple pantry ingredients into something so delicious. The seasoned ground beef, tender rice, and creamy sauce all come together under a golden layer of melted cheddar cheese. Every bite is pure comfort, and the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and foolproof.

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Simple Ingredients – Everything in this dish is easy to find and budget-friendly.
Family-Friendly – A hearty meal that both kids and adults will love.
Make-Ahead Friendly – You can assemble it in advance and bake when needed.
One-Pan Wonder – Less mess, less cleanup, and all the flavor in one dish.
Cheesy & Satisfying – The cheddar crust takes this casserole to the next level.

What Type of Rice Works Best for This Casserole?

The type of rice you use can make a big difference in the texture of this casserole. I prefer long-grain white rice because it stays fluffy and absorbs flavors well without becoming mushy. If you’re looking for a slightly firmer texture, jasmine or basmati rice are great alternatives.

For a healthier option, brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid to fully soften. If you’re in a hurry, you can even use pre-cooked or leftover rice, which cuts down on the overall bake time. Just be sure to adjust the liquid so the casserole doesn’t turn out too dry.

Options for Substitutions

This casserole is super versatile, and you can easily swap ingredients based on what you have on hand:

Ground Beef Alternatives – Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.
Rice Variations – Swap white rice for brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa for a different texture.
Cheese Choices – While cheddar is classic, you can use Colby Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a bit of spice.
Sauce Options – Instead of cream of mushroom soup, try cream of chicken or cream of celery for a different flavor profile.
Vegetable Add-Ins – Stir in bell peppers, peas, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

Ingredients for This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Each ingredient in this casserole plays a key role in creating a rich and satisfying dish. Here’s why each one matters:

Ground Beef – The heart of this dish, adding savory, meaty flavor and protein.
White Rice – Provides the perfect base to soak up all the delicious seasonings and creamy sauce.
Onion – Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the beef.
Garlic – Enhances the overall taste with a warm, aromatic touch.
Beef Broth – Helps cook the rice while infusing extra savory goodness.
Cream of Mushroom Soup – Creates a creamy, comforting texture that binds everything together.
Worcestershire Sauce – Gives the dish a rich, umami depth with just a hint of tang.
Cheddar Cheese – The star topping that melts into a golden, flavorful crust.
Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
Paprika (Optional) – Adds a touch of smoky warmth to the dish.
Chopped Parsley (for Garnish) – A fresh pop of color and mild herbal contrast to the cheesy richness.

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef and Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. As it cooks, break it up into small crumbles. Add the chopped onion and garlic, stirring until they soften and become fragrant. Drain any excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming too oily.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Liquids

Once the beef mixture is cooked, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth and cream of mushroom soup, mixing well to create a rich, creamy sauce. This will help keep the casserole moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Combine with Rice

Stir in the uncooked white rice, making sure it’s evenly coated with the sauce. This ensures that the rice absorbs all the delicious flavors as it bakes. If using pre-cooked rice, reduce the broth slightly to avoid making the dish too watery.

Step 4: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the beef and rice mixture evenly into it. Smooth out the top so it bakes evenly.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 30-35 minutes.

After that, remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden, bubbly, and slightly crispy on the edges.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve warm and enjoy every cheesy, hearty bite!

How Long to Cook the Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This casserole takes about 40-50 minutes to bake in total:

30-35 minutes covered – This allows the rice to absorb the liquid and cook properly.
10-15 minutes uncovered – This helps the cheese get golden and slightly crispy on top.

For best results, let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and thicken slightly.

Tips for the Perfect Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating fresh cheddar makes a big difference!
Drain the beef well – Excess grease can make the casserole too oily, so be sure to drain it after browning.
Cover while baking – This traps moisture and ensures the rice cooks evenly.
Don’t skip the resting time – Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and prevents it from falling apart when serving.
Add a crunchy topping – If you like extra texture, sprinkle crushed crackers or fried onions over the cheese before the final bake.
Check the rice – If the rice still seems undercooked after the initial baking time, add a splash of broth, cover, and bake for another 5-10 minutes.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this casserole is easy to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here’s what to avoid:

Using the wrong rice – Avoid instant or quick-cooking rice, as it may become mushy. Stick to long-grain white rice or adjust the liquid if using brown rice.
Not draining the beef – Leaving too much grease in the beef mixture can make the casserole oily and heavy.
Skipping the foil – Baking uncovered for the full time can cause the rice to dry out before it’s fully cooked.
Adding too much liquid – The rice needs just enough broth to cook properly without making the dish soupy. Stick to the recommended measurements.
Overbaking – Leaving the casserole in the oven too long can make the cheese hard and the rice too dry.
Not letting it rest – Giving the casserole a few minutes after baking helps the ingredients set, making it easier to serve.

What to Serve With Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This casserole is a full meal on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate the experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread

A slice of warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every last bite of cheesy goodness.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Try roasting broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and flavorful side dish.

3. Side Salad

A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.

4. Steamed Green Beans

Lightly seasoned green beans add color and freshness to the plate.

5. Corn on the Cob

The natural sweetness of corn pairs well with the savory beef and cheese.

6. Pickles or Coleslaw

A tangy side like coleslaw or pickles adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy casserole.

7. Mashed Potatoes

For an extra comforting meal, serve this casserole alongside creamy mashed potatoes.

8. Sautéed Mushrooms

Mushrooms add a rich, umami flavor that complements the beef perfectly.

Storage Instructions

This casserole stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigerator: Let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freezer: To freeze, let it cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Estimated Nutrition

While exact nutrition will vary based on ingredients used, here’s an estimate per serving:

Calories: ~450-500 kcal
Protein: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Fat: ~20g
Saturated Fat: ~10g
Fiber: ~2g
Sodium: ~750mg

For a lighter version, you can swap ground beef for ground turkey, use reduced-fat cheese, or substitute brown rice for added fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked rice instead of uncooked rice?

Yes! If using pre-cooked rice, reduce the broth by half since the rice won’t absorb as much liquid. Stir everything together before baking to ensure it’s evenly coated.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

4. What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?

You can swap it with cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, or even make a homemade version by mixing a roux with milk and broth.

5. How do I make this dish spicier?

For extra heat, add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses all work well. For extra flavor, try smoked cheddar.

7. What can I do if my casserole turns out dry?

If the casserole seems dry, add a splash of warm broth before reheating. Also, make sure to cover it with foil while baking to retain moisture.

8. Can I add vegetables to this casserole?

Definitely! Stir in bell peppers, peas, carrots, spinach, or mushrooms for added color and nutrition.

Conclusion

This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to save this recipe on Pinterest and share it with your family and friends—they’ll love it just as much as you do!