Introduction

Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. This hearty dish combines tender ground beef, creamy mushroom and chicken soups, flavorful rice, and gooey melted cheddar cheese for a meal that pleases the whole family. It’s the ideal dish for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings when you want something filling, warm, and delicious. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and can be customized to suit your taste with various seasoning and add-ins. Let’s dive into how to make this cozy, satisfying casserole that’s bound to become a household favorite.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 cup (185g) long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) beef broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup (240ml) milk
• 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch. This step helps the rice cook up nice and fluffy. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and beef broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth. Set the rice aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

While the rice is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula. Cook the beef until it’s completely browned, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess grease from the pan. Season the beef with 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon paprika, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (if you prefer a little heat). Stir to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed and then remove the skillet from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, browned ground beef, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, and 1 cup of milk. Stir well to create a thick, creamy mixture. Make sure everything is thoroughly mixed, so each bite is packed with flavor. Once combined, pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Now, it’s time for the cheesy goodness! Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole mixture. The cheese will melt during baking and form a bubbly, golden crust that’s irresistible. To avoid the cheese from browning too quickly, cover the dish with aluminum foil.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Place the covered casserole dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and lightly golden. The casserole should be bubbling around the edges when it’s done. Once baked, allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before serving, giving the ingredients time to settle.

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Cooking Notes

• Rinsing the rice is key to prevent it from becoming too sticky during cooking.
• If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can substitute spicy sausage for ground beef or use a combination of ground beef and pork.
• To reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium versions of the condensed soups or make homemade cream soups.
• For extra vegetables, you can toss in chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach into the beef mixture during cooking.

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Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance it with some delicious sides:

• Garlic bread: Toasted garlic bread makes an excellent companion, soaking up all the creamy flavors.
• Green salad: A light, crisp side salad with a lemon vinaigrette will add freshness and a crunchy texture to the meal.
• Steamed veggies: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans provide a healthy and vibrant contrast to the rich, cheesy casserole.

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Tips

1. Make it ahead: This casserole can be prepared the night before and stored in the fridge. Just pop it into the oven when you’re ready to bake!
2. Freeze for later: If you’re meal prepping, this dish freezes well. Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
3. Add a crunch: For a crispy topping, you can sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers over the cheese before baking.
4. Make it spicier: If you like your meals on the spicier side, add a dash of hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.

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Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

45 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 5 minutes

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 470 kcal
• Protein: 26g
• Sodium: 1100mg

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Conclusion

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the definition of comfort food. It’s warm, cheesy, savory, and incredibly satisfying. The best part is how simple and quick it is to throw together, making it perfect for busy weeknights. From the creamy rice and beef filling to the golden, cheesy top, each bite is loaded with flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner or bringing it to a gathering, this casserole is sure to be a hit. Plus, with the possibility of customizing the recipe with your favorite veggies, spices, and toppings, it’s endlessly versatile. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and delicious!

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