Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the perfect blend of flavors and comfort that warms the heart and soul. Picture a bubbling dish filled with savory ground beef, tender rice, and a creamy, cheesy topping that creates a golden crust, inviting everyone to the table. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a nostalgic embrace that speaks of family gatherings and home-cooked warmth. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish for a cozy weekend, this cheesy casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Plus, with its easy preparation and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to whip it up in no time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to love Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole. Firstly, it requires minimal ingredients that you may already have in your pantry, making it a budget-friendly option. Its simple preparation allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the meal with your loved ones. With its rich, flavorful profile and gooey cheese topping, this dish is undeniably a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can easily customize the veggies or seasonings, ensuring every bite is just to your liking.
Ingredients
To whip up this delectable Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: This creamy and tangy cheese is key to creating that irresistible topping.
- 1 pound ground beef: Juicy and flavor-packed, it forms the hearty base of the dish.
- 1 cup instant white rice: Quick-cooking rice that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth: Rich and savory, it adds depth to the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle kick of heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Aromatic and savory, it intensifies the dish’s overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a touch of smokiness and color.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that complements the beef and vegetables perfectly.
- 1 small sweet onion, diced: Sweet and crunchy, it adds freshness.
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of celery soup: Creamy and rich, it acts as the perfect sauce for our casserole.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a vibrant punch of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: An extra layer of oniony goodness.
- 12 oz frozen mixed veggies (carrots, peas, corn, etc.): Colorful and nutritious, they add texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions
Prepare the Oven: Begin by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures that your casserole will bake evenly and come out perfectly bubbly.
Grease the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the casserole from sticking.
Cook the Beef and Onion: In a deep skillet or pot, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant. This step will infuse the beef with an irresistible aroma.
Combine Ingredients: Remove the skillet from the heat, then add the soup, beef broth, all seasonings, instant rice, and frozen vegetables. Mix everything well until combined.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly on top of the casserole, allowing it to melt beautifully as it bakes.
Cover with Foil: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap steam and moisture, which helps in cooking the rice thoroughly.
Bake: Place the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until it is hot and bubbly. Everyone will start to notice the delicious smells wafting through your home!
Broil for Color: After baking, uncover the dish and briefly broil it for 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden-brown finish on the cheese.
Let Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set a bit, making it easier to serve.
Tips & Tricks
- Brown the Ground Beef Well: Ensure the beef is well browned for maximum flavor. A crispy edge can enhance the overall taste of the casserole.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to swap or add any vegetables that you prefer. Fresh veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be great alternatives.
- Layer the Cheese: For an extra cheesy flavor, try layering some cheese in between the beef and rice mixture and topping it again before baking.
- Spice it Up: If you like heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the mixture for that extra kick.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is perfect on its own as a hearty meal, but you can elevate your dining experience by serving it with a crisp side salad or steamed veggies. It is also a great dish to bring to potlucks or family gatherings. Pair it with a refreshing glass of iced tea or your favorite soft drink for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Nutritional Information
A serving of Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole typically contains roughly:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
These figures can vary depending on specific ingredients used, so it’s essential to consider balance within your overall diet. This casserole offers protein from beef and cheese, carbohydrates from rice, and fiber from vegetables, rounding out your meal nicely.
Storing Tips & Variations
To store leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions for a quick meal option later. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F until heated through.
If you want to change it up, consider these variations:
- Mexican Style: Add black beans, corn, and some taco seasoning instead of Italian seasoning for a flavorful twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with a plant-based alternative and enhance the vegetable content for a meat-free option.
- Spicy Cheesy Casserole: Stir in jalapeños or hot sauce for those who crave some heat.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is your go-to recipe for a family-friendly meal that embodies comfort and ease. Its rich flavors and creamy texture will surely make it a hit at the dinner table. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients. We’d love to hear about your experience—feel free to share your thoughts and adaptations!
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
2. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can use brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts, as brown rice takes longer to cook.
3. What can I substitute for cream of celery soup?
You can use cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade cream sauce if you’d like to avoid canned soups.
4. Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! It freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
5. Can I add other spices to this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cumin, chili powder, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
Enjoy creating and sharing your own Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, a comforting dish that brings everyone together in delicious harmony!
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef Juicy and flavor-packed for the hearty base.
- 1 small sweet onion, diced Adds sweetness and crunch.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Brings a vibrant punch of flavor.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese Key for the irresistible topping.
- 1 cup instant white rice Quick-cooking rice that absorbs flavors.
- 12 oz frozen mixed veggies (carrots, peas, corn, etc.) Freshness and nutrition added.
- 1.5 cups beef broth Adds depth to the dish.
- 2 cans cream of celery soup (10.5 oz each) Acts as the perfect sauce.
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Intensifies overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika Adds smokiness and color.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Fragrant blend that complements the dish.
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavors.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper For a gentle kick of heat.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Extra layer of flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- In a deep skillet, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat for about 10 minutes until browned.
- Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Remove from heat and combine with soup, beef broth, seasonings, rice, and frozen vegetables.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
- Uncover and broil for 2-3 minutes to achieve a golden finish.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.