When it comes to easy-to-make comfort food, few dishes hit the mark like a cheesy casserole. And one dish that consistently stands out as both a crowd-pleaser and a satisfying meal is the Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. This dish brings together savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a golden, crispy cheddar topping, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a weekend family gathering, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, cook the rice according to the package directions. While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Break the meat apart with a spoon and cook until browned, about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Build the Casserole Base: To the skillet with the beef, add the diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes to meld the flavors together. Once the rice is cooked, mix it into the skillet, making sure everything is well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Smooth it out into an even layer. If you’re using sour cream, spread it over the top of the mixture for a creamy base.
- Cheddar Topping: Sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will create that delicious cheesy crust once baked.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the casserole sit for about 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Why This Casserole Works
This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is not just easy to make—it’s also highly customizable. The ground beef can be swapped for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for those who prefer a different protein. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by adding chili powder or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
The rice acts as a perfect base, soaking up all the rich flavors from the beef, tomatoes, and seasonings. And of course, the crispy cheddar crust is what takes this casserole from good to unforgettable. Each bite has a delightful balance of cheesy richness and hearty texture.
Tips for the Best Casserole:
- Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake it, simply pop it into the oven and cook as directed.
- Frozen Vegetables: Add in some frozen peas, corn, or mixed vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor. Just stir them in with the rice and beef mixture.
- Cheese Variety: While cheddar is the classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorites. You can even sprinkle some parmesan on top for an added layer of flavor.
- Make It Spicy: For those who love a little heat, adding a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños will spice things up.
Conclusion
This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect dish for busy days when you want something hearty, comforting, and satisfying. With its easy preparation, versatility, and delicious combination of flavors, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family. Whether served as a main dish or paired with a fresh side salad, this casserole will quickly become a go-to recipe in your meal rotation.
