Why This Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole Works
This casserole is loved because it checks all the boxes:
Simple pantry ingredients
One baking dish, minimal cleanup
Customizable flavors
Comforting texture and cheesy goodness
Perfect for leftovers
The combination of seasoned beef + creamy rice + golden melted cheese creates layers of flavor and texture that make this dish unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
2 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
1 cup whole milk
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasonings
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried oregano
Optional Add-ins
½ cup cooked bacon bits
½ cup sautéed mushrooms
½ cup corn or peas
Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Kitchen Tools Required
Large skillet
Medium mixing bowl
9×13-inch baking dish
Aluminum foil
Wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Once the beef is no longer pink, drain excess fat if necessary.
Add diced onions and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and oregano. Mix well and remove from heat.
Prepare the Rice Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
Beef broth
Milk
Cream of mushroom soup
Add the uncooked rice to the mixture and stir until evenly coated. This mixture will cook the rice slowly in the oven, absorbing all the flavors.
Assemble the Casserole
Lightly grease your baking dish. Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly across the bottom.
Pour the rice and liquid mixture over the beef, making sure everything is evenly distributed. Gently press down so the rice is fully submerged in the liquid.
Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
Bake Until Tender
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the covered casserole for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Remove the foil and gently stir the casserole to redistribute moisture.
Add the Cheese Layer
Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly across the top. Add optional bacon bits or herbs if using.
Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to firm up and enhances the flavors.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Flavor Variations to Try
Mexican-Style Version
Add taco seasoning to the beef
Use pepper jack cheese
Top with chopped cilantro
Creamy Mushroom Beef Casserole
Double the mushrooms
Use cream of celery soup
Add a splash of heavy cream
Spicy Cheesy Beef and Rice
Add diced jalapeños
Sprinkle red pepper flakes
Use spicy cheddar cheese
Tips for Perfect Results
Always cover tightly during the first bake to ensure rice cooks evenly
Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting
Let the casserole rest before slicing
Don’t overbake after adding cheese
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with:
Simple green salad
Steamed broccoli or green beans
Garlic bread or dinner rolls
Roasted vegetables
It’s filling on its own but even better with a fresh side to balance the richness.
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
Make Ahead
Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate. Add 10 extra minutes to baking time.
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze fully cooked casserole portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Oven: Cover and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes
Microwave: Heat individual portions in 1-minute intervals
Add a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Nutrition Overview (Approximate)
Calories: 450 per serving
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 24g
Values may vary based on ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Beef and Rice Casserole is the definition of classic comfort food. It’s warm, cheesy, filling, and endlessly customizable — perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family dinners. Once you try it, it’s guaranteed to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.