Ground Beef and Rice Casserole with Cheesy Golden Topping
A comforting ground beef and rice casserole made with seasoned ground beef, tender white rice, creamy mushroom sauce, and melted cheddar cheese. Baked until hot and bubbly with a golden cheese topping.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Total Time: 45
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked white rice
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken soup)
½ cup milk or beef broth
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft. Drain excess fat.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cream of mushroom soup, milk or beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper until smooth.
5. In the prepared baking dish, combine cooked rice, beef mixture, half the shredded cheddar cheese, and the prepared sauce. Mix thoroughly.
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
8. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
9. Optional: Broil for approximately 2 minutes for a crispier cheese topping, watching carefully.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
Notes
Use fully cooked white rice for this recipe. Uncooked rice requires additional liquid and cooking time.
Drain excess grease from the ground beef before assembling the casserole.
Cream of chicken soup can replace cream of mushroom soup.
Milk creates a creamier sauce, while beef broth adds savory flavor.
Freshly shredded cheddar cheese generally melts more smoothly.
For a crispier topping, broil briefly and watch carefully to prevent burning.
Refrigerate leftovers promptly in airtight containers for up to 3–4 days.
Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Freeze cooled portions in freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Find it online: https://elitesrecipes.com/ground-beef-and-rice-casserole/