There's nothing quite as comforting as a warm, cheesy casserole bubbling away in the oven. This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution—packed with flavor, hearty ingredients, and that irresistible cheesy goodness. It's a dish that feels like a big, warm hug on a plate.

I first made this recipe when I was short on time but needed a meal that would satisfy everyone at the table. It quickly became a family favorite, making regular appearances on our weekly menu. Whether you're cooking for picky eaters or need a quick and budget-friendly option, this casserole is sure to hit the spot.

Why You'll Love This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Get ready to fall in love with a meal that's as easy to make as it is delicious. This casserole is the perfect go-to for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy family dinners.

First, it's a one-pan wonder. By combining tender ground beef, fluffy rice, and a cheesy topping, you have everything you need for a complete meal in a single dish. Say goodbye to endless cleanup!

Second, this dish is budget-friendly without skimping on taste. Using simple pantry staples like rice, canned soup, and shredded cheese keeps it affordable while still delivering bold, comforting flavors.

Another reason to love this recipe? It's a crowd-pleaser. Even picky eaters will clean their plates thanks to the creamy, cheesy goodness that ties the dish together.

Finally, it's endlessly versatile. Swap in your favorite vegetables, experiment with different cheeses, or spice it up with extra seasonings—the possibilities are endless.

Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a permanent part of your dinner rotation.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture.

Ground beef forms the hearty base of this casserole. Opt for 80/20 ground beef for a rich, flavorful result. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

White rice adds a tender, fluffy component that soaks up all the cheesy, savory goodness. While white rice works best, you can use brown rice for added fiber—just note it will take longer to cook.

Cream of mushroom soup gives the dish its creamy texture. If you're not a fan of mushrooms, cream of chicken or cheddar cheese soup makes a great alternative.

Shredded cheese is the star of the show. Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for extra kick.

Vegetables like frozen peas, carrots, or green beans add color and nutrients. You can also use fresh veggies, but they’ll need a quick sauté before mixing them into the casserole.

No special equipment is needed—just a trusty casserole dish, a skillet, and a mixing bowl to bring everything together.

How To Make This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Creating this casserole is as simple as it is satisfying. Let me guide you through the steps to ensure success every time.

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While the oven heats, brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season it with a pinch of salt and pepper, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease.

Next, prepare the rice according to the package instructions. This ensures it’s tender and ready to absorb all the flavors of the casserole.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, rice, cream of mushroom soup, and half of the shredded cheese. If you're adding vegetables, stir them in at this point. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish, spreading it out in an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top, covering the casserole completely.

Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden, crispy topping, switch to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to scoop.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This casserole stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or next-day lunches.

To refrigerate, transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

For longer storage, freeze the casserole. Place portions in freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as usual.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this casserole is its flexibility. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Swap the protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work beautifully in this dish.
Change up the veggies: Add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for a fresh twist.
Spice it up: Stir in a teaspoon of chili powder, smoked paprika, or your favorite hot sauce for a kick of heat.
Try different grains: Substitute quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for a unique spin.
Experiment with cheeses: Combine different types for a gourmet touch—Gruyère and Parmesan pair especially well.

This casserole is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don’t be afraid to mix and match ingredients to suit your tastes or use up what’s in your fridge.

No matter how you customize it, this Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious.