Absolutely! Here’s a detailed, step-by-step recipe for a Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole that’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners. I’ll include everything from ingredients to cooking tips.
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Serves: 4–6
For the casserole:
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1 pound (450 g) ground beef
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
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2 cups beef broth (or water with bouillon)
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1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken)
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1 cup milk
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
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1 teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
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1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or parsley (optional)
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1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional, for added veggies)
For topping (optional but delicious):
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
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2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
Directions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
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Add the chopped onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
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Drain any excess fat from the pan.
Step 3: Prepare the Rice Base
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Stir in the uncooked rice and let it toast slightly for 1–2 minutes with the beef mixture.
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Add the beef broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and dried herbs. Mix well.
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Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes. (Rice will partially cook here—it will finish in the oven.)
Step 4: Combine with Creaminess
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In a small bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and milk.
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Pour this mixture over the beef and rice in the skillet. Stir to combine.
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If using frozen peas and carrots, stir them in now.
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Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
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Transfer the beef-rice mixture to the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
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Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top, then optionally add breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping.
Step 6: Bake
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
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Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Serve
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Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to scoop.
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Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions.
Tips & Variations
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Extra veggies: Bell peppers, corn, or broccoli can be added.
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Cheese variations: Try a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for extra gooeyness.
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Spicy twist: Add a dash of chili powder or hot sauce for mild heat.
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Make-ahead: Assemble the casserole in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding 10–15 minutes to cooking time.
If you want, I can also give you a shortcut version that uses a single pan and only 30 minutes total cooking time, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.