Here’s your complete recipe profile for Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole, with all requested sections and the wide line removed:
Introduction
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the definition of comfort food—hearty, cheesy, and satisfyingly simple. This family-friendly dish combines seasoned ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and tender rice all baked under a blanket of melted cheddar. It’s a budget-friendly, weeknight staple that’s both filling and delicious.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Casseroles have been a cornerstone of American home cooking since the early 20th century, especially post-WWII when convenience foods like condensed soups became pantry essentials. This specific combination—ground beef, rice, and cheese—reflects a Midwestern sensibility of stretching affordable ingredients into nourishing meals. It’s a symbol of family dinners, potlucks, and passed-down traditions.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Additions
- 1 cup sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added veggies
- A pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika for heat
- Swap cream of mushroom with cream of celery or cheddar soup
- Use brown rice or quinoa for a whole grain twist
- Top with crushed crackers or French fried onions for crunch
Tips for Success
- Use freshly cooked or leftover rice that’s not too wet to prevent a soggy casserole.
- Drain the ground beef well to avoid excess grease.
- Shred your own cheese for better melt and texture—it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded.
- Let the casserole rest 5–10 minutes after baking to set and thicken.
- Make it ahead and refrigerate—just add 5–10 extra minutes of baking time if cold.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, milk, 1 cup cheddar cheese, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for 25 minutes, or until hot and bubbly and cheese is fully melted.
- Let rest a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!
Description
Warm, cheesy, and savory, this casserole offers layered comfort in every bite. The creamy texture from the soup and milk combines with melted cheese and tender rice to complement the hearty ground beef, making it a well-rounded dish that satisfies adults and kids alike.
Nutritional Information (Per serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: ~390 kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Conclusion
This Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is a no-fuss, all-flavor meal that brings comfort to your table any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers that taste even better the next day, this casserole delivers every time.
Recommendation
Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated easily in the oven or microwave. It’s also freezer-friendly—just wrap tightly and freeze before baking.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this dish more health-conscious, consider using lean ground beef or ground turkey, low-fat cheese, and reduced-sodium soup. Add in chopped spinach or zucchini for an extra veggie boost without compromising flavor. Enjoying a cozy dish like this in moderation is a delicious way to strike a balance between comfort and wellness.
Let me know if you’d like a printable card version or tips for turning this into a freezer meal prep!