Experience a comforting and flavorful cheesy ground beef and rice casserole, combining tender ground beef, fluffy rice, zesty tomatoes, and a blend of melted cheeses. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers and will delight both kids and adults alike. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-Friendly: The cheesy goodness appeals to both children and adults, making it an instant hit at the dinner table.
- One-Pot Meal: Enjoy less cleanup with a dish that combines all ingredients in one pan.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add vegetables or swap out cheese types to suit your family’s taste preferences.
- Comforting Flavor: This casserole delivers hearty flavors that warm you from the inside out.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand to make your cooking experience smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving dish
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Perfect for browning beef and cooking all the ingredients together in one pot.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing of flavors.
Ingredients
For the Meat Base
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
For the Casserole Base
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Cheesy Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Step 1: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Season it with salt and black pepper. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Rice
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), long-grain rice, and beef broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir to combine.
Step 3: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and evenly mixed throughout.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer the casserole to a serving dish, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy this cheesy delight with a side salad or your favorite vegetables!
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Serving your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole can enhance the meal experience for everyone at the table. Here are a few creative serving suggestions to elevate your dish.
Family Style
- Serve the casserole directly from the baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. This approach creates a cozy, communal dining experience.
Individual Portions
- For a more elegant presentation, scoop out individual servings into small bowls or ramekins. This method is perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
With Fresh Ingredients
- Top each serving with fresh ingredients such as chopped tomatoes, avocado slices, or diced red onions. These additions add color and freshness to the dish.
Saucy Twist
- Drizzle some hot sauce or salsa over each plate before serving. This adds a spicy kick that pairs well with the cheesy goodness of the casserole.
Accompanied by Bread
- Serve with warm garlic bread or dinner rolls on the side. The bread is great for scooping up any leftover casserole on the plate.
How to Perfect Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
To ensure your casserole is absolutely delicious every time, follow these handy tips.
- Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excess fat in your casserole, making it healthier without sacrificing flavor.
- Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. They blend well with the flavors of this dish.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different types of cheese such as pepper jack or gouda for a unique twist on flavor.
- Taste Before Serving: Always taste your casserole before serving, adjusting seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference.
- Let it Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for about 5–10 minutes after cooking. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave for best results.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole can create a balanced meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Steamed Broccoli: A light and vibrant side that adds crunch and health benefits.
- Garden Salad: Fresh greens tossed with a simple vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks complement this cheesy dish perfectly, ideal for mopping up any leftovers.
- Roasted Vegetables: Season seasonal veggies like carrots and zucchini, roasting them until tender for added flavor.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and acidity that balances out the creamy textures of your casserole.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a classic touch; serve it grilled or boiled with butter for extra flavor.
- Baked Beans: These hearty beans offer sweetness and protein, rounding out your meal nicely.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges add texture and are fun to eat alongside your cheesy creation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Creating a Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Not browning the beef properly: Ensure the ground beef is browned evenly. This adds flavor and prevents a greasy texture.
- Ignoring the seasoning: Seasoning is key. Don’t skip salt and pepper or forget to taste as you go to adjust flavors.
- Overcooking the rice: Follow the cooking time carefully. Overcooked rice can turn mushy and alter the dish’s texture.
- Using low-quality cheese: Opt for good quality cheese for better melting and flavor. Cheap cheese may not melt well and can affect taste.
- Skipping garnishes: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Don’t forget to garnish before serving for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- item It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- item Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
- item Use a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
- item It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place individual portions in a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish made with ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and cheese, perfect for family dinners.
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
How can I customize my Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or swap cheeses based on your preferences for added flavor.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This casserole keeps well in both the fridge and freezer, making it great for meal prepping.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not only easy to make but also versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients to suit your taste. Give this cozy dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, a perfect dish for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This one-pot meal combines seasoned ground beef, tender rice, zesty tomatoes, and a delightful blend of melted cheeses, creating a rich and creamy texture that will satisfy everyone at the table. With just 10 minutes of prep time, this easy-to-make casserole is not only family-friendly but also highly customizable—feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap cheese varieties to suit your taste. Serve it warm with a side salad or garlic bread for an unforgettable meal that brings everyone together.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 ounces)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- Seasonings (salt, pepper, Italian seasoning)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat; season with salt and pepper.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), rice, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Remove from heat; stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
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