Can I just say — thank you for being here! This casserole is truly something special. It’s been lovingly dubbed “Hubby Addiction” in my kitchen because every time I make it… it’s gone before I can even wrap up leftovers. 😅 If your house is anything like mine, hearty meals that come together easily AND hit all the comfort food notes are gold — and this one delivers in every cheesy, savory bite.
Let me walk you through the full recipe, share a few tips, and tell you why this Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole might just be your new weeknight go-to.
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What Is This Casserole All About?
This dish is everything you want in a one-pan wonder: lean ground beef, tender rice, a creamy base made from beef broth and mushroom soup, and a melty, golden cheddar cheese topping that bakes into a crispy crust. 🤤
It's budget-friendly, uses pantry staples, and is a true comfort food classic. It feeds a family, pleases picky eaters, and reheats like a dream.
💖 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One pan, no fuss – Mix, bake, eat!
- No precooking the rice – it bakes in the dish!
- Golden, cheesy crust = irresistible
- Perfect for make-ahead meals or potlucks
- Comforting, nostalgic flavors in every bite
🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Uncooked white rice | 1 cup |
| Beef broth | 2 cups |
| Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup (or more!) |
| Small onion, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
🧰 Tools You’ll Need
- 9x13-inch baking dish
- Skillet
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Aluminum foil
- Knife and cutting board
🔁 Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ons
Want to customize it a little? Here’s how:
- Swap ground turkey or ground chicken for a leaner version
- Add a cup of frozen peas or corn for color and sweetness
- Use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead
- Sprinkle with paprika or Italian herbs before baking for extra depth
- For a spicy kick, stir in a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes
👨🍳 How to Make Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef & Rice Casserole
1. Preheat & Prep
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9x13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Cook the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
3. Season & Mix
Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then mix in the uncooked white rice, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup until combined.
4. Assemble
Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly. Top with the shredded cheddar cheese, making sure to cover the surface well.
5. Bake
Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and continue baking 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Rest & Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set up and makes serving easier!
🍽 What to Serve With It
While this is a full meal on its own, here are some great pairings:
- Steamed green beans with butter and garlic
- Simple side salad with a vinaigrette
- Dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the creamy goodness
- Pickled beets or slaw for a tangy contrast
💡 Tips for Perfect Casserole Every Time
- Don’t skip resting time — it firms up and cuts better!
- Use sharp cheddar for deeper flavor.
- Want extra cheesy crust? Add ½ cup more cheddar on top in the last 5 minutes.
- If your rice is undercooked, cover and bake another 10–15 minutes.
🧊 Storage Instructions
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked (and cooled) portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Microwave individual servings or warm in the oven at 350°F until hot.
ℹ️ Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour
- Servings: 6–8
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice?
You can, but it takes longer to cook. Parboil the rice first or increase the baking time (and liquid slightly).
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate (covered) for up to 24 hours before baking.
Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?
Absolutely! But freshly shredded melts smoother if you have time.
Can I double the recipe?
Sure! Use two baking dishes or a deeper dish — just watch the bake time and test the rice.
❤️ Final Thoughts
This Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef & Rice Casserole is cozy, no-fuss, and seriously delicious. Whether it’s for your hubby, the whole family, or just you (with lots of leftovers!), it’s bound to become a regular in your meal rotation.
It’s warm. It’s satisfying. It’s got that cheesy top layer that no one can resist. And best of all — it’s so easy to pull together.
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