cheesy ground beef and rice casserole dish

Here’s a cheesy ground beef and rice casserole that’s easy, cozy, and crowd-pleasing.

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Cheesy Ground Beef & Rice Casserole

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 cup uncooked rice (white or long-grain)

• 2 cups beef broth (or water)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup

• 1 cup milk

• 1½–2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar blend)

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

• 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)

• Cooking spray or butter for greasing

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 casserole dish.

2. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium heat with the onion. Drain excess grease.

3. Add garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. In a large bowl, combine:

   • uncooked rice

   • beef broth

   • cream soup

   • milk

   • cooked beef mixture

   • veggies (if using)

5. Pour mixture into the casserole dish and stir gently.

6. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, until rice is tender.

7. Remove foil, sprinkle cheese evenly on top.

8. Return to oven uncovered and bake 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

9. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

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🔥 Easy Variations

• Mexican-style: add taco seasoning + pepper jack cheese

• Extra creamy: mix in ½ cup sour cream

• Spicy: add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes

• Healthier: use ground turkey and brown rice (add extra liquid + bake longer)

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🧀 Pro Tips

• Keep it tightly covered while baking so the rice cooks properly

• Shred your own cheese for better melting

• Great for meal prep—tastes even better next day!

Want a one-pan stovetop version, slow cooker, or no-cream-soup option?