Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Name: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1 small onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Ultimate Comfort Bites

I absolutely love making this Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole because it's a hearty meal that the entire family enjoys. The combination of tender beef, fluffy rice, and gooey cheese creates comfort food at its finest. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking less than an hour from start to finish. I usually whip this up on busy weeknights or when I want something satisfying and warming. This dish is perfect for those moments when you need to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:18:27.978Z

When I first made this Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. My kids were excited just by the smell of it baking in the oven! I decided to add some sautéed onions and bell peppers for an extra layer of flavor, which turned out to be a great decision. The best part is that you can customize the veggies based on what you have on hand.

After trying several methods, I've found that letting the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving makes a significant difference. It helps the layers settle and enhances the cheesy texture. Honestly, this dish has become a staple in our home, and I think you’ll love it too!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich cheesy flavor that satisfies your cravings
Hearty and filling, perfect for the whole family
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole is undoubtedly the ground beef, which adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish. Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier version, or use a combination of beef and turkey for a lighter twist. If you're short on time, feel free to use pre-cooked beef or leftovers – just ensure they are heated through before mixing them with the other ingredients.

The rice acts as a fluffy base that absorbs the flavors of the broth and beef. Choosing long-grain white rice gives the dish a nice texture. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, brown rice can work, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook. Just make sure it's completely tender before serving for the best experience.

Cooking Techniques to Keep in Mind

When sautéing the vegetables, aim for a medium heat to avoid burning the garlic and onions. You want to cook them until they're translucent and fragrant, usually about 3-5 minutes. This step is crucial as it develops the flavor base for your casserole. Ensure the vegetables are evenly chopped to promote consistent cooking, which ultimately enhances the dish’s overall texture.

Simmering the mixture covered is key to allowing the rice to cook evenly. Make sure to keep an eye on it to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom. The liquids should be just at a gentle bubble; if it’s boiling too hard, reduce the heat. You want the rice to absorb all the beef broth and tomatoes for added flavor.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 small onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.

Combine Rice and Broth

Stir in the uncooked rice, beef broth, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Add Cheese

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in half of the cheddar cheese until melted.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes until cheese is bubbly.

Serve

Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes, then serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding spices like paprika or cumin. You can also use brown rice for a healthier alternative
just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider topping your portions with some fresh parsley or green onions for an extra burst of color and flavor. It’s also delicious with a dollop of sour cream or a side of hot sauce for those who like a little kick.

If you're feeding a larger crowd, serving this casserole alongside garlic bread or crusty rolls will make for a satisfying family-style meal. It’s also a great option for potlucks; just prepare it ahead of time, and it will stay warm for an extended period if covered properly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, a gentle approach is best to maintain the texture; I recommend using an oven set to 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, heating for about 15-20 minutes. If you're short on time, you can microwave individual portions, but be cautious to not overcook, which can make the rice chewy.

For longer storage, consider freezing the casserole. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. You may add extra cheese on top just before baking to rejuvenate that gooey texture once baked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as substitutes for beef.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and refrigerate it, then simply bake it when you're ready to eat.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or some grilled vegetables.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.