Ground Beef And Rice Casserole

Name: Ground Beef And Rice Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup white rice, uncooked; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 cup chopped onion; 1 cup chopped bell pepper; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Highlighted under: Comfort Classics Reimagined

I love making Ground Beef and Rice Casserole on busy weeknights because it’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. This dish combines ground beef with hearty rice and savory vegetables, all baked together in one pan. The best part? It's a comforting meal that my family absolutely enjoys. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, I can whip up a delicious dinner that everyone devours. Plus, leftovers make for great lunches the next day!

Created by

Marley Quinn

Last updated on 2026-02-15T02:01:36.316Z

When I first started making Ground Beef and Rice Casserole, I experimented with various spices and vegetables to find the perfect balance. The result was a comforting dish that not only filled our bellies but also warmed our hearts. I particularly love adding a generous amount of cheese on top, which turns golden and bubbly while baking.

One tip I've found useful is to use leftover rice from other meals, which saves time and adds more flavor. This dish is a hit during family gatherings, and the best part is that it can easily be customized to include any veggies you have on hand!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying comfort food that's perfect for family dinners.
Versatile recipe that allows for customization with your favorite veggies.
Easy to prepare with minimal clean-up required, perfect for busy nights.

Technique for Perfectly Cooked Rice

The key to achieving perfectly cooked rice in this casserole is to ensure it has enough liquid to absorb while baking. Using the specified beef broth not only enhances the flavor but also provides moisture. Monitor the bake time carefully; if you notice a lot of liquid remaining when you remove the foil, give the casserole an additional 5-10 minutes to cook the rice fully. Aim for a consistency that is slightly creamy but not watery for the best texture.

If you're looking for a healthier alternative, consider using brown rice instead of white. You'll need to adjust the liquid slightly and increase the baking time, as brown rice takes longer to cook. Typically, you should add an additional one-quarter cup of broth and extend the baking by 15-20 minutes to ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender.

Flavor Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this casserole by adding your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, carrots, or corn can all be excellent additions. Just make sure to chop them finely so they cook through in the same time as the other ingredients. I often add a cup of frozen peas for a burst of color and sweetness, mixing them in during the last few minutes of baking to keep them vibrant and slightly crisp.

For a spicier kick, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the beef mixture. This will create a nice contrast with the richness of the beef and the creaminess of the cheese. Adjust the seasonings based on your preferences—adding smoked paprika can introduce a warm, smoky flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This casserole holds up well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days, making it ideal for meal prep. To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. If you need to reheat, do so in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until heated through. You may want to cover it with foil initially to retain moisture and prevent the cheese from over-browning.

If you're considering freezing, it's best to do so before baking. Assemble the casserole with all ingredients except the cheese, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and then aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding cheese during the last 10-15 minutes for a gooey topping.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

1 lb ground beef
1 cup white rice, uncooked
2 cups beef broth
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped bell pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Steps

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef, sautéed vegetables, uncooked rice, beef broth, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Bake the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.

Add Cheese

Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Ingredient Insights

The combination of ground beef and rice is not just a way to stretch your ingredients; it also creates a filling meal that hits all the right notes. The richness of the beef blends with the starchiness of the rice to form a satisfying texture. Lean ground beef is best for this recipe, as it provides flavor without an overwhelming greasiness. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, though you may want to adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavor.

Diced tomatoes add acidity and moisture, balancing the richness of the beef. Consider using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with Italian seasoning. Additionally, using fresh herbs instead of dried can elevate the dish; however, if using fresh, double the amount since fresh herbs tend to be milder in flavor compared to their dried counterparts.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your casserole comes out dry, it’s likely due to insufficient liquid or overbaking. Always double-check the liquid ratios; if you're using ingredients like brown rice that absorb more liquid, be proactive. Should you encounter a crusty top, this can happen if the casserole is baked uncovered for too long. Lead with foil, especially during the initial baking period, to retain moisture and then remove it to brown the cheese toward the end.

On the flip side, if you find your casserole too watery, it could be due to using too much broth or not allowing the rice to absorb enough. In this case, try shortening the cooking time next round or allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after being pulled from the oven, which can help thicken the sauce as it cools slightly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but it will take longer to cook. Check the package instructions for cooking times.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it until you're ready to bake.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add any vegetables you have, such as zucchini, corn, or even spinach.

→ Is it okay to freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you're ready to enjoy.