Ground Beef Rice Casserole: Amazing 1-Pan Dinner

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Ground beef rice casserole has been my go-to for years when I need a comforting, no-fuss meal. I remember making it for the first time when I was just starting out in my own kitchen, and the aroma of the savory beef, tender rice, and melted cheese filling my apartment was pure bliss. This easy ground beef and rice bake is truly a lifesaver on busy weeknights, delivering a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone in the family devours. Let’s get cooking this delicious ground beef rice casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This dish is a weeknight dinner dream, and I know you’ll adore it for so many reasons:

It’s incredibly easy to throw together, making it perfect for busy evenings.
The savory ground beef and creamy rice create a wonderfully satisfying texture.
It’s a true one-pan wonder, minimizing cleanup.
This hearty ground beef rice casserole is a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters enjoy.
The cheesy topping is pure comfort food perfection.
As a ground beef and rice bake, it’s fantastic for meal prepping lunches for the week.
The combination of flavors is deeply savory and oh-so-delicious.
This simple ground beef rice casserole is budget-friendly and uses common pantry staples.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delightful ground beef and rice casserole with cheese. I find having everything prepped makes the cooking process so much smoother!

1 lb ground beef (85% lean) – provides a rich, savory base
1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning – adds a lovely herby aroma
Salt and pepper, to taste – essential for bringing out flavors
3 tbsp butter, divided – for sautéing and richness
3/4 cup diced onions – about half a medium onion, for sweetness
1 tbsp minced garlic – because garlic makes everything better!
2 1/2 cups beef broth – the liquid for cooking the rice
1 1/4 cups uncooked white long-grain rice (not instant) – key for the perfect fluffy texture
8 oz sliced button mushrooms, washed – adds an earthy depth
10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup – creates that signature creamy sauce
1/2 cup milk – for extra creaminess
1/2 cup sour cream – adds a slight tang and velvety texture
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided – for that irresistible cheesy topping

How to Make Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This easy ground beef rice casserole recipe is surprisingly simple to put together. You’ll have a delicious, hearty meal on the table in no time!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish. This step ensures your yummy ground beef rice casserole won’t stick.
Step 2: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the 1 lb ground beef over medium-high heat. Season it generously with 1 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Once browned, drain off any excess grease.
Step 3: Melt 2 tbsp butter in the same pot. Add the 3/4 cup diced onions and sauté them until they’re nice and soft, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the 1 tbsp minced garlic and cook for just one minute more until fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in the 2 1/2 cups beef broth and the remaining 1 tbsp butter. Add the 1 1/4 cups uncooked white long-grain rice. Give it a good stir, bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Add the 8 oz sliced button mushrooms to the pot. Cover again and continue to cook for another 5–10 minutes. It’s important not to stir during this time. After cooking, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes.
Step 6: Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Stir in the 10.5 oz can cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup milk, 1/2 cup sour cream, and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything gently until it’s wonderfully creamy and well combined. This is where the magic happens for this easy ground beef rice casserole recipe.
Step 7: Transfer the entire mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, with a beautiful golden cheese topping.
Step 8: Once out of the oven, let this amazing ground beef rice casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This brief rest allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.

Pro Tips for the Best Ground Beef Rice Casserole

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make this ground beef rice casserole absolutely perfect every time. Follow these tips for a truly memorable meal!

Using 85% lean ground beef is ideal for richness without excessive grease.
Don’t skip the resting period after cooking the rice; it allows the grains to absorb the liquid properly.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider toasting the uncooked rice in the butter for a minute before adding the broth.
If you like a bit of crunch, you can add some buttered breadcrumbs on top of the cheese before baking.

What’s the secret to perfect Ground Beef Rice Casserole?

The real secret to a perfect ground beef rice casserole comfort food lies in the creamy sauce base and not overcooking the rice. My favorite trick is ensuring the rice simmers gently and then rests, preventing it from becoming mushy. For more cooking tips, check out our recipes section.

Can I make Ground Beef Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, minus the final cheese topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, add the cheese and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ground Beef Rice Casserole?

The most common pitfall is using instant rice, which can lead to a mushy texture. Always opt for long-grain white rice. Also, be sure to drain the grease from the beef thoroughly to prevent an oily casserole. For more detailed information on cooking techniques, you can visit Simply Recipes.

Best Ways to Serve Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This hearty ground beef rice casserole is so versatile, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any meal. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad to cut through the richness, or some steamed broccoli for a pop of color and extra nutrients. For a complete ground beef rice casserole dinner recipe experience, consider serving it alongside some crusty garlic bread to sop up any extra cheesy goodness. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s always a hit! You can find more serving suggestions on our recipes page.

Nutrition Facts for Ground Beef Rice Casserole

When enjoying a hearty slice of this ground beef rice casserole, here’s what you can expect per serving. It’s a satisfying meal that balances rich flavors with essential nutrients.

Calories: 435 kcal
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 23g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 620mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used. For more about nutrition, you can check out the MyFitnessPal website.

How to Store and Reheat Ground Beef Rice Casserole

This delicious ground beef rice casserole is perfect for making ahead, which is why I love it as a ground beef and rice one pot meal. Once it’s finished baking and has cooled slightly, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to maintain its deliciousness. For refrigeration, place the cooled casserole in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’re planning to freeze it, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can pop a refrigerated portion in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or for a crisper topping, bake it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ground Beef Rice Casserole

What is the best liquid to use for ground beef rice casserole?

Beef broth is my preferred liquid because it really enhances the savory flavor of the casserole. However, you can also use chicken broth or even water in a pinch. When I first learned how to make ground beef rice casserole, I experimented with different broths, and beef broth always wins for that deep, satisfying taste.

Can I add vegetables to my ground beef rice casserole?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a fantastic way to boost nutrition and flavor. I often toss in some frozen peas and carrots, diced bell peppers, or even some spinach towards the end of the cooking process. It makes the casserole even heartier and more colorful.

My ground beef rice casserole is a bit dry, what went wrong?

A dry casserole usually means the rice didn’t have enough liquid or it was overcooked. Make sure you’re using the correct amount of broth and that the rice is simmering gently, not boiling rapidly. Also, don’t skimp on the creamy elements like the cream of mushroom soup, milk, and sour cream – they are key to a moist result!

How do you make a creamy ground beef rice casserole without soup?

If you’re looking to avoid canned soup, you can create a creamy sauce from scratch. Start by making a roux with butter and flour, then whisk in milk or broth until thickened. Adding a bit of sour cream or cream cheese at the end will give it that lovely, velvety texture often found in a good ground beef rice casserole. For more recipe ideas, visit our about me page.

Variations of Ground Beef Rice Casserole You Can Try

This versatile dish is a fantastic base for creativity, and I love experimenting with different twists to keep things exciting! Here are a few of my favorite variations if you’re looking to switch things up from the classic.

Spicy Fiesta Casserole: Kick up the heat by adding a can of diced green chiles and a teaspoon of chili powder to the beef mixture. Top with Monterey Jack cheese and a dollop of sour cream when serving for a truly zesty experience.
Chicken and Broccoli Bake: Swap the ground beef for cooked, shredded chicken and add a cup of steamed broccoli florets. This makes for a lighter, yet still satisfying, meal.
Creamy Mushroom Lover’s Casserole: For an extra rich and decadent dish, double the mushrooms and add a bit of Gruyere cheese along with the cheddar. This version truly elevates the creamy ground beef rice casserole to a new level of deliciousness.
Vegetarian Delight: Skip the beef entirely and sauté some extra onions, bell peppers, and zucchini. You can also add a can of drained black beans for added protein and texture.