Ground Beef Rice Casserole – A Cozy, All-in-One Family Favorite

This Ground Beef Rice Casserole is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table — hearty, flavorful, and made with simple ingredients. It’s the ultimate comfort food, layering seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, savory vegetables, and melty cheese in one cozy, oven-baked meal.

Often passed down through family kitchens, this casserole is a weeknight staple that’s endlessly customizable. Whether you grew up with a version made from pantry staples or you’re discovering it for the first time, this dish delivers on both convenience and flavor.

With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s the kind of recipe that works for meal prep, potlucks, or a satisfying dinner after a long day.

Ingredients Overview

The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient brings something important to the texture, taste, or ease of preparation.

• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef (80–90% lean) works best, offering flavor without too much grease. It forms the meaty base of the dish and provides plenty of protein.

• Rice: Long-grain white rice like jasmine or basmati is traditional, but brown rice or wild rice blends also work well. For convenience, pre-cooked or leftover rice makes prep even easier.

• Onion & Garlic: These aromatic staples build a savory base when sautéed with the ground beef. Dice onions small for even cooking and mild sweetness.

• Bell Peppers: Add sweetness, color, and crunch. Red and green are most common, but any variety will work.

• Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) bring brightness and acidity, helping to balance the richness of beef and cheese.

• Tomato Sauce or Soup: Many versions use tomato soup or marinara to create a cohesive, saucy filling that binds the meat and rice.

• Cheese: Shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella adds creamy, melty goodness to the casserole. Use a sharp cheddar for bolder flavor.

• Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning are common. For a smoky twist, add a touch of smoked paprika or cumin.

Ingredient Variations

• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese and top with crunchy breadcrumbs.

• Low-Carb: Swap rice for riced cauliflower to lower carbs without losing texture.

• Gluten-Free: Most versions are naturally gluten-free, but check labels on canned soup or tomato sauces.

• Protein Swaps: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat alternatives work well.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef
   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Drain excess fat.

3. Sauté the Aromatics
   Add diced onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Then stir in the chopped bell peppers and cook another 2–3 minutes.

4. Add Tomatoes and Sauce
   Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and tomato sauce or soup. Stir to combine. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.

5. Mix in Rice
   Stir in the cooked rice. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of broth or water. The mixture should be moist but not soupy.

6. Assemble the Casserole
   Spoon the beef and rice mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheese evenly across the surface.

7. Bake Until Bubbly
   Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.

8. Rest and Serve
   Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the slices to hold together better.

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

• Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

• Southwestern Twist: Swap Italian seasoning for taco seasoning, use pepper jack cheese, and add black beans or corn.

• Cheesy Crust: For extra texture, sprinkle crushed tortilla chips or breadcrumbs on top before baking.

• Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrients and volume.

• Freezer Friendly: Assemble the casserole and freeze unbaked. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Serving Ideas & Occasions

Ground Beef Rice Casserole is incredibly versatile and suits a variety of settings:

• Family Dinners: Hearty enough to satisfy all ages, and easy to pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

• Potlucks and Gatherings: Travels well and reheats beautifully.

• Meal Prep: Make ahead and portion into containers for grab-and-go lunches or dinners.

Serve it with:

• A green salad with a zesty vinaigrette

• Roasted broccoli or green beans

• Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls

• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top

Nutritional & Health Notes

This dish is a well-balanced combination of protein, carbs, and fat, making it a satisfying meal in one.

• Protein: Ground beef provides iron and B vitamins. Opt for lean cuts to reduce saturated fat.

• Fiber: Add beans or swap in brown rice for a fiber boost.

• Lower Calorie Option: Reduce the cheese or use light cheese, and bulk up with more veggies.

• Portion Control: Cut into squares for easy serving and balanced portions.

With its flexibility and make-ahead friendliness, it’s a practical choice for healthier home cooking without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use uncooked rice in this recipe?

A1: It’s best to use cooked rice to ensure even texture and avoid excess moisture. However, if using uncooked rice, increase liquid (broth or sauce) and bake covered for longer (about 50–60 minutes).

Q2: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

A2: Yes! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5–10 minutes to baking time if cold from the fridge.

Q3: How do I freeze it?

A3: After assembling (before baking), cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as usual. Baked leftovers also freeze well.

Q4: Can I use a different grain instead of rice?

A4: Absolutely. Cooked quinoa, couscous, or orzo can replace rice, though each will slightly change the texture and cooking time.

Q5: What’s the best cheese for this casserole?

A5: Sharp cheddar gives bold flavor and melts beautifully. You can mix with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a stretchier top layer.

Q6: Can I make this vegetarian?

A6: Yes. Swap the ground beef for lentils, crumbled tofu, or a meat alternative. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth.

Q7: Why is my casserole watery?

A7: This can happen if the tomatoes or sauce have excess liquid. Drain canned tomatoes slightly or simmer longer to reduce moisture before baking.

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