Description
A creamy, cheesy ground beef and rice casserole that’s simple to prepare and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. This hearty dish combines savory browned beef, tender rice, and a melty cheese topping baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup (about 10.5 oz)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Optional Vegetables
- ½ cup peas, corn, or green beans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Beef and Onions: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef together with the diced onion until the beef is browned and fully cooked, and the onions are softened. Drain any excess fat thoroughly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, stir together the cooked beef and onions with the cooked rice, cream of mushroom or chicken soup, sour cream, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until fully incorporated. If using optional vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans, fold them in now.
- Add Cheese Mixture: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses into the beef and rice mixture to evenly distribute cheesy flavor.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses over the top to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the casserole to set slightly for easier portioning.
Notes
- Brown rice or cauliflower rice can be used as healthier or lower-carb substitutes for white rice.
- For a Tex-Mex variation, add taco seasoning to the beef while cooking for extra bold flavors.
- Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
- Ensure to drain the beef well to avoid a greasy casserole.
- This casserole can be made ahead and reheated, making it ideal for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
