Some recipes are more than just food—they’re a celebration of comfort, flavor, and the joy of sharing a hearty meal with loved ones. Easy Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is one such recipe. This casserole is a delightful combination of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, all topped with a golden, crispy cheddar crust that takes the dish to a whole new level. Imagine a comforting, one-pan meal that’s rich, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug, whether you’re serving it as a main course or bringing it to a potluck.

The first time I made this casserole, it was for a family dinner on a chilly evening. I wanted something hearty and comforting that wouldn’t keep me in the kitchen for hours. This recipe caught my eye, and as the casserole baked, the aroma of melted cheese and savory beef filled the house. My family couldn’t stop peeking into the oven, asking, “Is it ready yet?” When I pulled it out, the golden cheddar crust was perfectly crispy, and the inside was bubbling with cheesy goodness. “This is amazing!” my kids exclaimed, digging in eagerly. Since then, Easy Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole has become a family favorite, requested for dinners, gatherings, and even meal prep.

The first time I served this casserole, it was at a neighborhood potluck. My neighbor, known for her elaborate dishes, had brought her famous beef Wellington, and I was a little nervous to present my humble casserole. But as soon as I placed it on the table, the golden cheddar crust and the savory aroma caught everyone’s attention. “What’s in this?” a guest asked, eyeing the casserole curiously. “Ground beef, rice, and a lot of cheese,” I replied, trying to sound confident.

When everyone took their first bite, the room went quiet. Then came the murmurs of approval. “This is so good!” a neighbor said, reaching for seconds. Even my neighbor, the gourmet cook, nodded in approval. “You’ve got to give me this recipe,” she said with a smile. That day, my Easy Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole became a potluck favorite, and it’s been a staple at every event since.

Why This Easy Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

Selling Points:

• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Comforting and Flavorful: The combination of savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a creamy, cheesy sauce creates a mouthwatering dish.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a main course, a side dish, or even as leftovers for lunch.
• Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients like veggies, spices, or a different type of cheese to make it your own.

What You Need for Easy Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Ingredients for Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Ingredients for Cheddar Crust:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp melted butter

How to Make Easy Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Sauté the Veggies: Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Mix the Ingredients: Stir in the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Add Cheese: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Prepare the Cheddar Crust: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
8. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy.
9. Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

• Even Cooking: Make sure the rice is evenly distributed in the casserole to ensure it cooks properly.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh veggies and high-quality cheese for the best flavor.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Reheat: Warm leftovers in the oven or microwave for the best texture.

Substitutions and Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cream of mushroom soup.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute dairy-free cheese and sour cream.
• Vegetarian: Replace ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, peas, or carrots for a nutrient boost.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lean Meat: Use lean ground beef or ground turkey.
• Brown Rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice for added fiber.
• Low-Fat Cheese: Use low-fat cheddar cheese and sour cream.
• Bake Instead of Fry: Skip the butter in the crust and use a light spray of olive oil.

Closing for Easy Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This Easy Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of comfort, flavor, and the joy of sharing good food with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course, a side dish, or a potluck favorite, this casserole is sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how your batch turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a few hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! Freeze it before baking, then thaw and bake as directed.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey works perfectly for this recipe.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and cream of mushroom soup.

Can I add other veggies?
Yes, try adding mushrooms, peas, or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses.

What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?
Warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or lentils.

Can I use instant rice?
Yes, but reduce the baking time to 20-25 minutes.

This Easy Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a testament to the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!

Easy Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Recipe by CutsfoodCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1/2 tsp dried thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Ingredients for Cheddar Crust:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 tbsp melted butter

Directions

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
• Sauté the Veggies: Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Mix the Ingredients: Stir in the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
• Add Cheese: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
• Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Prepare the Cheddar Crust: In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
• Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the crust is golden and crispy.
• Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.