How to Make Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole in 30 Minutes

Are you ready to whip up a delicious, hearty meal that the whole family will love? I know I am! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for those busy weeknights. Plus, who can resist that cheesy crust? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for 30-minute meals.
• Hearty and satisfying, ideal for quick family dinners.
• Cheesy goodness that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Versatile—great as a main dish or paired with fresh salads.
• Can be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices.

Ingredients

To make this delightful casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound Ground Beef (Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess fat.)
• 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice (Rinse before cooking to remove excess starch.)
• 1 medium Onion (Finely chopped.)
• 2 cloves Garlic (Minced.)
• 2 cups Beef Broth (Enhances the flavor of the rice.)
• 1 can Diced Tomatoes (14.5 ounces, adds moisture and acidity.)
• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (Shredded, for the topping.)
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning
• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (For sautéing the onion and garlic.)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Cheddar Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices) to the mixture.
5. Add the rinsed rice and beef broth, stirring to combine.
6. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
10. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly:

• For added flavor, consider using homemade beef broth or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
• If you want to sneak in some veggies, feel free to add mixed vegetables to the beef mixture before baking.
• For a twist, try using different types of cheese, like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for a spicy kick!
• Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly to avoid a sticky texture.
• Letting the casserole sit for a few minutes after baking allows it to set, making it easier to serve.

How to Serve

This casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh salads or some crusty bread. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch. If you’re looking for more dinner plan ideas, check out my Beef with Broccoli or Ground Beef Stroganoff recipes!

Make Ahead and Storage

This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to make it even further in advance, you can freeze it before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

So there you have it! A delicious, cheesy, and satisfying Ground Beef Rice casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite. I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!