Visiting my sister’s house always feels like stepping into a warm embrace, where every corner of the home whispers comfort and familiarity. One chilly evening, after a particularly exhausting week, I walked through her door to be greeted by the irresistible aroma of something rich and savory simmering in the kitchen.
She had just pulled a bubbling, golden-topped casserole out of the oven—her version of the Creamy Cheesy Beef & Rice Casserole, a dish that has quietly become a beloved tradition at our family gatherings. As we settled around the table, the creamy texture of the rice mingled perfectly with the tender, flavorful beef and the luscious, melted cheddar cheese.
Each bite brought back comforting memories of our childhood dinners, where food served as more than nourishment—creating moments to connect, laugh, and share stories. Eating this dish with her rekindled those warm feelings, reminding me how the simplest homemade meals can weave the strongest bonds and create lasting memories.
Short Description
A comforting casserole combining lean ground beef, long-grain white rice, and a creamy blend of cheddar cheese, all baked to perfection. This dish offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures, making it a family favorite.
Key Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2½ cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Tools Needed
- 9×13-inch deep baking dish
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch deep baking dish to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the browned beef mixture, uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well incorporated.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Step 7: Bake Uncovered
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden, bubbly, and lightly browned on the edges.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Comforting and Hearty: The combination of beef, rice, and cheese creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this casserole is beginner-friendly.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare ahead of time and bake when ready to serve.
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Dry Rice: Ensure the rice is fully cooked by using the correct amount of liquid and baking time.
Overcooked Beef: Avoid overcooking the beef to prevent it from becoming tough; cook just until browned.
Uneven Cheese Distribution: Layer cheese evenly to ensure every bite is cheesy and flavorful.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve this casserole as a main dish alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
Pair with a light white wine or a refreshing iced tea for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions until warm.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice requires more cooking time and additional liquid. Adjust accordingly.
2. Can I substitute the cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, you can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative and use vegetable broth.
4. Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, assemble the casserole without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture for added heat.
Tips & Tricks
Add Vegetables: Incorporate diced bell peppers or mushrooms into the beef mixture for added nutrition and flavor.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Crispy Topping: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese before the final bake.
Recipe Variations
Mexican-Inspired: Add taco seasoning, black beans, and corn for a southwestern flavor.
Italian Twist: Incorporate marinara sauce and Italian seasoning, and top with mozzarella cheese.
Vegetable Medley: Add a mix of your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini and spinach, to the casserole.
Final Thoughts
Preparing this casserole brought back fond memories of family gatherings and shared meals. The rich flavors and comforting textures make it a dish worth repeating. Meaning that food has the power to connect us, evoke memories, and create new traditions.
I look forward to making this again and sharing it with loved ones, knowing it will continue to bring warmth and joy to our table.
Creamy Cheesy Beef And Rice Casserole
Print ThisIngredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2½ cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Cook ground beef and diced onion in a skillet until browned; drain excess fat.
Step 3: Stir in garlic and seasonings, cooking for 1 more minute.
Step 4: In a large bowl, combine the beef mixture with uncooked rice, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and 1 cup cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Pour the mixture into the baking dish and top with the remaining 1½ cups of cheese.
Step 6: Cover with foil and bake for 35 minutes.
Step 7: Uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Let it rest briefly, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.
