Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

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Picture this: a creamy, cheesy casserole with a perfect golden crust, filled with savory ground beef and tender rice. Trust me, you’re going to love this Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole! It’s the kind of comforting, hearty meal that brings everyone together around the table, and the best part? It’s so easy to whip up. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish has a rich, satisfying flavor that’ll have your guests asking for seconds. Seriously, this one’s a game-changer!

Why You’ll Love Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This casserole isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about making mealtime effortless and unforgettable. Here’s why it’s a go-to favorite:

Versatile

It’s the perfect balance of comfort and flavor for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy dinner for one or a crowd-pleasing dish at your next gathering. And imagine the joy of coming home after a long day and knowing this cheesy goodness is just a few steps away from being served!

Budget-Friendly

No fancy ingredients required—just a few pantry staples that come together in the most delicious way. It’s budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor, making it ideal for those days when you want to stretch your dollar but still enjoy something hearty and satisfying.

Quick and Easy

Even if you’re not a seasoned chef, this casserole will feel like a breeze to make. The steps are simple and stress-free, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the food.

Customizable

Love spicy food? Toss in some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce. Prefer things a bit milder? Feel free to dial it back and keep it cozy for the whole family.

Crowd-Pleasing

There’s something about that crispy, cheesy topping that always gets rave reviews. Whether you’re serving picky eaters or foodies, this casserole is guaranteed to hit the mark.

Ingredients in Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this cheesy dream to life:

  • Ground Beef: The heart of this casserole. Ground beef adds that rich, savory flavor that everyone loves.
  • Rice: Tender rice that absorbs all the delicious flavors and gives this dish its satisfying base.
  • Cheddar Cheese: The hero of the dish! The cheese creates that irresistible crust and melts perfectly throughout the casserole.
  • Onions & Garlic: For depth and flavor, these aromatics bring a savory base to the dish.
  • Tomato Sauce: Adds a touch of tang and richness that complements the beef and rice.
  • Spices & Herbs: Think salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or dried oregano for an extra flavor boost.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the casserole cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden crust.

Brown the Beef

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks, so it gets nice and crumbly. Once it’s browned, drain the excess fat and set it aside.

Cook the Aromatics

In the same skillet, sauté onions and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. This will build a delicious flavor base for the casserole.

Mix It All Together

Now, in a large bowl, combine the cooked beef, sautéed onions and garlic, cooked rice, tomato sauce, and your spices. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. You’ll know you’ve got it right when that warm, savory aroma fills the kitchen.

Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the beef and rice mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and top it off with a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese is what gives this dish its signature crust, so don’t be shy with it!

Bake to Perfection

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust on top.

Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. The cheesy crust will hold its shape, and the flavors will meld together beautifully. Serve warm, and enjoy!

How to Serve Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

Fresh Salad

A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.

Garlic Bread

Serve with a warm slice of garlic bread to scoop up any extra cheesy goodness.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or green beans make a colorful, healthy addition to the meal.

As a Standalone

This casserole is hearty enough to be the star of the show! Just garnish with some fresh parsley for that extra touch of flavor and color.

Additional Tips

Here are a few tips to make this recipe even better:

Prep Ahead

Save time by prepping the beef and rice the night before. You can even assemble the casserole and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it!

Spice It Up

Add a little kick with cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce if you’re in the mood for some heat.

Dietary Adjustments

If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping or skip them entirely.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. To reheat, just pop it in the oven for a few minutes to restore that crispy cheese topping.

Double the Batch

This casserole freezes wonderfully! Make a double batch and freeze the second one for later.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute the ground beef with something else?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great as a leaner option. You can even use plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian version.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes! Assemble it the day before and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake it as directed.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Q4: Can I freeze this casserole?
A4: Definitely! Just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this casserole?
A5: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes! Just make sure to use a larger dish and adjust the cooking time if needed.

Q7: Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
A7: It can be! Just swap in gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Q8: What side dishes go well with this casserole?
A8: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad are perfect pairings.

Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: Use lean ground turkey or chicken, and add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

Q10: What’s the best cookware for this recipe?
A10: A 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly for this casserole. You can use a ceramic or glass dish for even cooking.

Conclusion

This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is one of those recipes that becomes a staple in your kitchen, offering comfort, flavor, and versatility all in one dish. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting friends, or just craving a cozy meal, this casserole never disappoints. With its cheesy crust and savory filling, it’s the kind of dish that brings people together and leaves everyone asking for seconds. So go ahead, give it a try—you won’t regret it! And remember, this is just one of those recipes that proves simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. Enjoy!

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Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole

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This Cheddar-Crusted Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is a savory, cheesy, and comforting dish packed with flavor. A delicious combination of ground beef, rice, and creamy sour cream, topped with a melted cheddar crust that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prep

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

Scale
  1. For the casserole:
    1. 1 lb ground beef
    2. 1 cup cooked rice
    3. 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
    4. 1/2 cup sour cream
    5. 1/2 cup tomato sauce
    6. 1 small onion, diced
    7. 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    8. Salt and pepper, to taste
    9. Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
  • Stir in the garlic powder and tomato sauce. Then, add the cooked rice and sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir until well combined.
  • Pour the beef and rice mixture into a greased baking dish.
  • Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Feel free to use cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
  • You can add veggies like bell peppers or spinach to make it more nutritious.
  • For an extra cheesy experience, sprinkle a bit more cheese before baking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 14g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 31g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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