Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole

Name: Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

I absolutely love this Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole because it combines all my favorite comfort foods into one delightful dish. The gooey cheese, tender beef, and fluffy rice come together to create a hearty meal that makes everyone feel at home. Each bite melts in your mouth, and the flavors are simply irresistible. It's also a fantastic way to use up leftovers. I can whip it up quickly on a busy weeknight, and it brings the whole family together at the dinner table with smiles.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-20T12:05:27.894Z

When I first made this casserole, I was experimenting with what I had in my pantry, and it turned out to be a sensational hit! The combination of seasoned beef, wholesome rice, and a generous layer of cheese creates not just a meal, but a comforting experience. I've since perfected the recipe, ensuring it’s both flavorful and satisfying.

I often add different vegetables to the mix, depending on the season. I find that frozen mixed vegetables work great since they are quick to use. The secret is to let it rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the casserole to set perfectly. It’s a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich cheesy flavor with a comforting blend of beef and rice
One-pan meal that combines flavor and convenience
Easily customizable with your choice of vegetables or spices

      

Ingredient Insights

The ground beef is the star of this casserole, imparting rich flavor and protein. For a leaner option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, though it may alter the dish's overall flavor profile slightly. Be sure to brown the meat thoroughly, as this step not only enhances the taste but also reduces excess grease in the final dish.

The combination of uncooked white rice with beef broth ensures that the rice absorbs all the savory flavors while cooking. Using white rice provides a fluffy texture, but you can swap it out for brown rice; just remember it’ll need more liquid and a longer cooking time—around 40-45 minutes—to fully cook.

Perfecting the Bake

When baking, covering the casserole with aluminum foil is crucial; it traps steam which helps cook the rice evenly and keeps the beef tender. Make sure the foil is tightly sealed to prevent moisture loss. After the initial 25 minutes, removing the foil allows the cheese to achieve that desirable gooey texture and golden color, which can take an additional 5-10 minutes depending on your oven's heat distribution.

If you notice the cheese isn’t melting as expected, try moving the dish to a higher rack in the oven where the heat is more intense. Additionally, for a crunchy topping, broil it briefly at the end—just watch closely to prevent burning! A few extra minutes can turn your casserole from good to great.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

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

Make sure all your ingredients are fresh for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the casserole:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat. Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine Ingredients

In the same skillet, add the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, and frozen mixed vegetables. Stir everything together until well combined.

Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and cover tightly with aluminum foil.

Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve

Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole!

Don't forget to savor each bite!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or jalapeños to the beef while cooking. You can also swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella for a different taste experience.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil to prevent drying out, heating for about 15-20 minutes.

For longer storage, this casserole freezes well. After baking and cooling completely, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Customizations

Want to add a bit of color and nutrition? Toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. They not only enhance the flavor but also add a nutritious touch to the casserole. Just make sure to sauté firmer vegetables before adding to ensure they cook through by the time the casserole is done.

For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mix. The dish's cheesy richness balances out the heat, bringing a new level to your comforting meal. You can also experiment with different types of cheese—pepper jack for extra flavor or mozzarella for a milder taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Just store them in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free rice and ensure your beef broth is also gluten-free.