Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Name: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: Serves 4-6
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Hearth Meals | Soul-Warming

I love making Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole on busy weeknights because it’s not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare. The cheesy goodness combined with savory beef and fluffy rice creates a delicious one-dish meal that my whole family enjoys. Plus, it comes together in just a little over an hour, making it the perfect option to throw together after a long day. I can't wait for you to try it and see how it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation!

Created by

Marco

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:10:28.617Z

When I first made this casserole, I was blown away by how quickly everything came together. Ground beef, rice, and cheese meld beautifully in one dish, and the flavors are truly comforting. I like to use a mix of sharp and mild cheddar to give it a vibrant flavor profile—don’t skip this step!

One useful tip I discovered is to let the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking. It allows everything to set nicely, making it easier to serve. The aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is just the cherry on top!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Melted cheddar cheese that stretches with every bite
A comforting combination of beef and rice that's perfect for families
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or spices

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to a successful Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole lies in the quality of your ingredients. The ground beef should be fresh and well-trimmed, ideally 80/20 for a good balance of flavor and moisture. The rice must be uncooked and can be substituted with brown rice for a heartier texture, though you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid since brown rice requires more water and a longer simmering period.

Using high-quality beef broth enhances the richness of the dish. For a lighter option, low-sodium broth works well and helps control the saltiness. If you’re in a pinch, homemade broth can provide a freshness that store-bought versions might lack. Also, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor, or experiment with chicken broth if beef is unavailable.

Perfecting the Baking Technique

When baking the casserole, the covered stage is crucial for the rice to absorb the broth and cook through without drying out. Be sure to seal the foil tightly; you want to retain moisture inside. After the first 30 minutes, removing the foil is essential for achieving that bubbly, golden cheese topping. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary. If the cheese isn't browning within 15 minutes, you can broil it for an extra 1-2 minutes, but be vigilant to prevent burning.

Allowing the casserole to sit for a few minutes before serving is also a vital step; this resting time allows the ingredients to meld together, making every bite more cohesive and flavorful. It also makes it easier to serve, as the dish firms up slightly, preventing it from falling apart on your plate.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 lb ground beef
1 cup uncooked white rice
2 cups beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Brown the Beef

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

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the browned beef with rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.

Bake

Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add your favorite spices and herbs to elevate the flavor. You can also substitute quinoa for rice for a healthier option!

Variations and Customizations

This casserole is wonderfully adaptable. For a veggie boost, consider swapping the frozen mixed vegetables for fresh produce like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach. Just sauté any fresh veggies for a few minutes before mixing them in to help them cook properly during baking. You could also substitute the cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend for a different flavor profile.

For those looking to spice things up, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the meat mixture. You could also stir in some Mexican seasonings like cumin or paprika to give it a Southwestern flair. Herbs such as parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top before serving can also add freshness and color.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it ahead of time and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just keep in mind that the baking time may need to be extended slightly if you’re starting from a refrigerated state. Alternatively, you can also freeze it before baking; just make sure to wrap it tightly in foil and place it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

To reheat, thaw the casserole completely in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, typically about 30-35 minutes. If reheating a previously baked casserole, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning, and check for heat in the center to ensure it's warmed completely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid slightly, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to complete your meal.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes well! Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.