Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Recipe

Nothing brings people together like the smell of comfort food wafting from the kitchen. If you're after a hearty, affordable, and time-saving dinner, this ground beef and rice casserole recipe is your answer. It's budget-friendly, bursting with flavor, and perfect for busy families who crave home-cooked meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or preparing meals for the week, this simple casserole checks all the boxes. Get ready to discover all the details you need to recreate this dish, along with tips for making it your own.

The Appeal of Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Ground beef and rice casserole is a go-to dish for many reasons, and here’s why it reigns supreme in family kitchens everywhere.

1. Budget-Friendly Ingredients

For anyone looking to save on groceries without sacrificing flavor, this casserole uses pantry staples like ground beef, rice, and basic spices. It’s proof that you don’t need gourmet ingredients to create something delicious.

2. Quick to Make

Life gets busy, but meals don't have to suffer. This one-pan meal only takes 15 minutes of preparation before baking takes care of the rest. Less time in the kitchen means more time with your loved ones.

3. Great for Meal Prep

This casserole refrigerates and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep for the week. Say goodbye to wondering what’s for lunch tomorrow!

4. Customizable Flavors

Starting with a foundation of beef, rice, and veggies, you can add your own spin on this recipe. From Tex-Mex flair to gooey cheesy layers, the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a complete list of ingredients to make this flavorful ground beef and rice casserole (serves 4-6 people):

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or substitutable with brown rice for added nutrients)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies, drained
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix (feel free to substitute with your favorite vegetables)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping, if desired)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your ground beef and rice casserole.

Step 1. Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This allows the casserole to bake evenly and gives you that perfectly golden top layer.

Step 2. Cook the Ground Beef and Onions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3. Prepare the Casserole Mixture

Pour the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and drained diced tomatoes into the skillet with the cooked beef. Mix thoroughly and bring the mixture to a light simmer. Stir in the uncooked rice and frozen vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly combined.

Step 4. Assemble in a Baking Dish

Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch casserole dish. Smooth out the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.

Step 5. Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of the casserole. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.

Step 6. Rest and Serve

Once baked, allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to portion. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Extra Flavor

• Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or fried onions over the top before baking for a delightful crunch.
• Spice It Up: Love bold flavors? Add a tablespoon of taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist.
• Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Go all-in with more cheese by mixing some into the casserole filling before topping it off.
• Swap Vegetables: Don’t like peas and carrots? Substitute with bell peppers, corn, green beans, or zucchini.

Why Families Love This Dish

1. Kid-Approved: Even picky eaters will love the cheesy, savory combination.
2. Leftovers That Last: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze portions for up to 2 months.
3. Minimal Cleanup: It’s a one-dish wonder that keeps the mess to a minimum—perfect for hectic weeknights.

Share the Experience

Cooking brings people together, and this casserole is no exception. It's a meal that builds memories around the dinner table, whether you’re sharing it with family or friends. We encourage you to make it your own by tweaking the recipe to suit your taste.

Looking for more dinner inspiration? Check out our collection of comforting, budget-friendly recipes that the whole family will love.