Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the kind of comforting dinner that always brings everyone to the table fast. Packed with seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, onions, peas, tomato sauce, sour cream, and layers of melted cheddar cheese, this casserole delivers creamy, savory flavor in every bite. It’s warm, filling, budget-friendly, and easy enough for busy weeknights while still tasting like true homemade comfort food.
This cheesy casserole combines simple pantry ingredients into a hearty baked dinner that satisfies both kids and adults. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers and meal prep.
One evening after a long day, I needed dinner to come together quickly using ingredients already in the kitchen. I browned some ground beef, stirred in rice and cheese, and baked everything together with a creamy topping. The casserole came out bubbling, cheesy, and comforting enough that everyone immediately asked for seconds. Since then, this recipe has become one of those dependable family dinners that works whenever we need something easy, hearty, and satisfying.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook ground beef and chopped onions until the beef is browned and onions are soft.
- Drain excess grease from the skillet.
- Season with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir in chicken broth, cooked rice, tomato sauce, frozen peas, and 1 cup cheddar cheese.
- Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the cheese begins to melt.
- Preheat oven to 250°F and grease a baking dish.
- Transfer the beef and rice mixture into the baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Mix sour cream with the remaining cheddar cheese until smooth.
- Spread the sour cream mixture over the casserole and bake another 15 minutes.
- Let the casserole rest for several minutes before serving.
Notes
Why This Casserole Is So Popular
A Complete Comfort Meal in One Dish
One reason cheesy ground beef rice casserole is such a family favorite is that it combines protein, vegetables, rice, and cheese all in one pan.
The rice absorbs the flavorful broth and tomato sauce while the beef creates a savory base. Meanwhile, peas add color and a touch of sweetness that balances the richness of the cheese.
The creamy sour cream topping melts beautifully over the casserole, creating an extra layer of cheesy comfort.
Because everything bakes together, the flavors blend perfectly while keeping cleanup simple and convenient.
Easy and Budget-Friendly
Another reason this casserole remains popular is its affordability. Ground beef, rice, onions, and cheese are inexpensive ingredients that still create a filling meal for the whole family.
Additionally, the recipe uses pantry staples that many households already keep on hand. Therefore, it works well for busy evenings when grocery shopping hasn’t happened yet.
Since the casserole reheats well, leftovers also make excellent lunches or next-day dinners.
Ingredients That Build Rich Flavor
Ground Beef and Rice
Ground beef forms the hearty foundation of cheesy ground beef rice casserole. Lean ground beef works especially well because it provides flavor without creating excess grease.
Rice helps stretch the recipe while adding comforting texture. Cooked white rice is the easiest option, although brown rice also works if you prefer a nuttier flavor.
Chicken broth adds extra savory depth while helping the rice stay moist during baking.
Meanwhile, onions soften as they cook and create sweetness that balances the tomato sauce.
Cheese and Creamy Topping
Cheddar cheese gives the casserole its rich, melty texture. Mixing cheese directly into the beef and rice helps create creamy flavor throughout every bite.
The sour cream topping adds tanginess and smoothness that makes the casserole especially comforting.
Tomato sauce brings acidity and moisture while oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper create classic savory seasoning.
Frozen peas also brighten the dish while adding color and texture without requiring extra prep.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole
Cooking the Beef Mixture
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef and chopped onions, cooking until the beef browns completely and the onions become soft and translucent.
Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming overly oily.
Next, season the mixture with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly so the seasonings distribute evenly.
Then add chicken broth, cooked rice, tomato sauce, peas, and one cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Allow everything to simmer briefly until the cheese starts melting and the flavors combine together.
Baking the Casserole
Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a lightly greased baking dish and spread evenly.
Bake until the casserole heats through completely.
While it bakes, stir together sour cream and the remaining cheddar cheese in a bowl until smooth.
After the first baking time finishes, spread the sour cream mixture evenly over the casserole.
Return the dish to the oven and continue baking until the topping melts and becomes warm and creamy.
Let the casserole rest briefly before serving so it slices more cleanly.
Tips for the Best Rice Casserole
Keep the Texture Creamy
Using fully cooked rice helps prevent the casserole from becoming dry or undercooked.
If the mixture seems thick before baking, add a splash of additional broth for extra moisture.
Additionally, avoid overbaking because too much oven time can dry out the rice and beef.
Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese, although both options work.
Customize the Flavor
Cheesy ground beef rice casserole is very flexible and easy to customize.
Popular additions include:
- Corn
- Bell peppers
- Mushrooms
- Jalapeños
- Black beans
- Green chiles
You can also swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef if desired.
For a spicier casserole, add chili powder, cayenne pepper, or pepper jack cheese.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Refrigerating Leftovers
Store leftover cheesy ground beef rice casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm larger portions in the oven until heated through.
The casserole often tastes even better the next day because the flavors continue blending overnight.
Freezing Instructions
This casserole also freezes very well.
Allow it to cool completely before wrapping tightly with foil or transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Freeze for up to three months.
When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until hot and bubbly.
Because it freezes so well, many families prepare double batches for future meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use uncooked rice?
It’s best to use fully cooked rice so the casserole bakes evenly and stays creamy.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese works beautifully, but Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or Mexican cheese blends also taste great.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole and refrigerate before baking for an easy make-ahead dinner.
Can I freeze cheesy ground beef rice casserole?
Absolutely. Freeze it tightly covered for up to three months.
Can I add vegetables?
Yes. Corn, bell peppers, mushrooms, and green chiles all work well in this recipe.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole combines savory beef, fluffy rice, vegetables, tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese into one comforting and satisfying baked dinner.
Because the recipe uses affordable ingredients and simple preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family. The creamy topping and cheesy texture make every bite warm, rich, and comforting.
Once you try this cheesy ground beef rice casserole, it may quickly become one of your favorite easy comfort-food dinners thanks to its hearty flavor, creamy texture, and simple ingredients.
