This cheesy ground beef and rice casserole combines ground beef, rice, mushrooms, cheddar cheese, and a creamy mushroom sauce for the ultimate comfort food.
You know those nights when you’re staring at the fridge, hoping it will magically inspire you? Yeah, that’s how this casserole was born.
It had been a long day—the kind where even takeout felt like too much effort. I spotted ground beef, some rice, and that lone can of cream of mushroom soup sitting in the pantry like it knew it was finally going to be useful. With a “let’s wing it” attitude and zero expectations, I threw it all together, added some cheddar for good measure (because when isn’t cheese the answer?), and popped it in the oven.
What came out was next-level cozy. Like, the kind of dish you take a bite of and immediately think, yep, this one’s staying in the dinner rotation. My family practically licked their plates clean.
And honestly? That’s what comfort food is all about—easy, warm, and loaded with the kind of flavors that feel like a hug.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef And Rice Casserole Recipe?
I’m telling you—this casserole hits different. Here’s why:
- All-in-One Comfort: Ground beef, rice, cheese, and a creamy sauce? That’s a winning combo.
- No-Fuss Ingredients: Simple stuff you probably already have in the kitchen.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Great for meal prep—or those “I can’t deal with cooking tomorrow” moods.
- Feeds a Crowd: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or when you want leftovers (trust me, you’ll want them).
- Super Customizable: Want more veggies? Swap the cheese? Go for it. This casserole gets you.
Ingredient Notes:
A few simple ingredients come together for something seriously magical:
- Ground Beef: I use 85% lean ground beef—it’s got just enough fat for flavor without being greasy.
- White Rice: Long-grain white rice works best here. Stick to regular, not instant!
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar all the way. It melts beautifully and packs that bold, cheesy punch.
- Mushrooms: Button mushrooms add an earthy depth. Feel free to mix in other types if you’re feeling fancy.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup : It’s the classic for a reason—silky, rich, and perfect here.
- Beef Broth: Adds a savory base while keeping the rice tender.
- Sour Cream & Milk: For extra creaminess and a slight tang to balance all that cheese.
- Italian Seasoning: A hint of herbs to round everything out.
Pro Tip: Shred your own cheddar instead of using pre-shredded. It melts better and tastes fresher—totally worth it.
How To Make Cheesy Ground Beef And Rice Casserole?
This one’s as easy as it gets—perfect for busy weeknights.
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by browning 1 lb. ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Season with 1½ tsp Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Once fully cooked, drain the excess grease and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add ¾ cup diced onions and cook until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
Stir in 1 tbsp minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Pour in 2½ cups beef broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
Stir in 1¼ cups uncooked white rice. Cover and let it cook for 10 minutes to start absorbing that flavorful broth.
Step 4: Add Mushrooms and Simmer
Toss in 8 oz. sliced mushrooms and let them cook with the rice for another 10 minutes.
Want To Save This Recipe?
Turn off the heat and let it sit, covered, for 10 minutes to finish cooking the rice completely.
Step 5: Mix in the Creamy Ingredients
Now, the magic happens. Stir in:
- The cooked ground beef
- 1 can (10.5 oz.) cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup cheddar cheese
Mix everything together until creamy and dreamy.
Step 6: Assemble & Bake
Transfer everything into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese on top—because extra cheese is always a good idea.
Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Cool & Serve
Let it rest for a few minutes (if you can resist). Then grab a fork and dig in!
Storage Options:
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze fully cooled casserole for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it from drying out.
Variations and Substitutions:
This casserole is so versatile. Here are a few easy tweaks:
- Switch the Meat: Ground turkey or chicken works great too.
- Add Veggies: Stir in some spinach, peas, or diced carrots for extra color.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika gives it a nice kick.
- Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix for a twist.
- Gluten-Free: Swap the cream of mushroom soup for a gluten-free version and double-check your broth.
What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Beef And Rice Casserole?
This casserole’s already the star, but a few sides can make it shine even brighter:
- Garlic Bread: Because carbs on carbs just work sometimes.
- Steamed Green Beans: A light, fresh contrast to all the creaminess.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized, and perfect alongside cheesy goodness.
- Simple Green Salad: Something crisp to balance things out.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the liquid and cooking time since brown rice takes longer to soften.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap the cream of mushroom soup for a gluten-free version and use a GF-certified broth.
If you’re craving something cheesy, comforting, and seriously easy, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is your answer.
It’s cozy. It’s satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel good.
Try it tonight—your taste buds (and your family) will thank you! And if you do make it, let me know how it turned out—better yet, tag me on Instagram so I can see your masterpiece!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Keep the Flavor Coming – Try These:
Cheesy Ground Beef And Rice Casserole
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef 85% lean
- 1.5 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt/Pepper
- 3 tbsp. butter divided
- ¾ c onions diced
- 1 tbsp. garlic minced
- 2 ½ c beef broth
- 1 ¼ c uncooked white long grain rice not instant rice
- 8 oz. sliced button mushrooms washed
- 10.5 oz. cream of mushroom soup
- ½ c milk any kind
- ½ c sour cream
- 2 c cheddar cheese divided
Instructions
- Start by browning 1 pound of ground beef in a pot while adding 1.5 teaspoons of seasoning, salt and pepper. Once browned drain the beef. Set it aside.
- Next melt 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté 3/4 cup of onions, along with 1 tablespoon of garlic.
- After that stir in 2 and a half cups of beef broth. Add 1 and a quarter cups of long-grain rice. Let the mixture simmer covered for 10 minutes.
- Once the rice has cooked for a bit add in 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms. Let everything simmer together for another 5 to 10 minutes.
- Turn off the heat. Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes.
- Now it's time to mix in the ground beef along with one can (10.5 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup, half a cup each of milk and sour cream as well as one cup of cheddar cheese.
- Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish measuring 9x13 inches. Finally top it off with another cup of cheddar cheese.
- Bake everything at a temperature of around 350°F for 20 minutes. Once done baking serve up this dish and enjoy!
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
2 Responses
Delicious. I had to use up a box of Beef Rice A Roni so tonight used that instead of Beef Consume & Long grain rice. This is a keeper ! Comfort food on a cold night. Will make again.
I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed the Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole! I love how you made it your own with the Beef Rice A Roni—such a creative twist! Comfort food is always the best, especially on a cold night. Thanks for sharing, and I’m happy it’s a keeper for you! 😊