Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

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If there’s one dish that defines **comfort food heaven**, it’s this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. Imagine **tender rice** infused with savory ground beef, sautéed onions, and a rich, creamy sauce—all blanketed in a layer of gooey **melted cheese**. It’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfies every craving for something warm and home-cooked. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal-prepping for the week, or craving something simple after a long day, this casserole delivers every time.

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⭐ Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This dish is the perfect **one-pan comfort meal**—easy to assemble, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious. It’s made with everyday pantry ingredients, yet it tastes like something that’s been slow-cooked with love for hours. The best part? It’s a true **crowd-pleaser**—kids, adults, and even picky eaters devour it without complaint.

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🧀 Ingredients (and Why They Work)

• 1 lb ground beef: The star of the show—juicy, flavorful, and full of protein. Ground beef gives the casserole its hearty base and deep, savory flavor.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked): Rice soaks up the rich beef juices and creamy sauce, creating a soft, comforting texture that ties everything together.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth, balancing the richness of the beef and cheese.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of aromatic flavor that enhances every other ingredient in the dish.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: The secret to the casserole’s **creamy texture**—it binds everything into a luscious sauce with earthy undertones.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup: Adds a velvety consistency and extra savory flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
• 1 ½ cups beef broth: Ensures the rice cooks evenly and infuses it with rich, meaty flavor.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping): Cheddar melts beautifully, adding that signature **cheesy pull** and sharpness that makes this dish irresistible.
• ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper: Simple seasoning to highlight the natural flavors without overpowering them.
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional): Adds color and a subtle smokiness to the final dish.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Used for sautéing and adding richness to the casserole base.

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and add the diced onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess fat.
3. Add Garlic and Seasoning: Stir in minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Cook for another **30 seconds** until fragrant.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and beef broth. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, add the uncooked rice, cooked ground beef mixture, and the soup mixture. Stir to combine evenly. Sprinkle **1 cup** of shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
6. Bake to Perfection: Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for **45 minutes**. Remove the foil and bake for another **10–15 minutes**, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
7. Add More Cheese: Sprinkle another generous layer of cheddar on top and bake uncovered for **5 more minutes** until melted and bubbly.
8. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole **rest for 5 minutes** before serving—this allows it to set and makes slicing easier.

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💡 Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

• **Use freshly shredded cheese.** Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
• **Don’t skip the resting time.** This step helps the rice absorb the remaining liquid for a perfectly cohesive texture.
• **Customize it!** Add diced bell peppers, peas, or corn for extra flavor and color.
• **Want a bit of heat?** Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole pairs beautifully with:

• A fresh **garden salad** with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
• **Garlic bread** or buttery dinner rolls for soaking up every creamy bite.
• **Steamed vegetables** like broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a balanced meal.

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❤️ Why Everyone Loves This Recipe

It’s **comfort in a casserole dish**—simple ingredients come together to create something magical. The creamy sauce, the tender rice, and the melted cheese make every bite taste like home. It’s a **no-fuss, make-ahead meal** that tastes even better the next day, and it’s versatile enough for family dinners, potlucks, or freezer prep.

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✨ Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something unforgettable. With its creamy texture, cheesy top, and rich beef flavor, it’s a recipe that will instantly earn a permanent place in your weekly rotation. It’s **easy, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious**—the kind of comfort food that keeps people coming back for seconds :)