Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole: A Quick and Comforting Meal

If you’re looking for a meal that’s simple, satisfying, and full of cheesy goodness, Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the perfect dish for you. This easy-to-make casserole combines ground beef, rice, carrots, and a creamy, savory sauce, all topped with melty cheese. Whether you’re cooking for the family on a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a favorite.

It’s a versatile recipe that can be made in three different ways: quick, semi-homemade, or from scratch, depending on how much time you have. The comforting, cheesy topping and hearty filling make this casserole a hit with both kids and adults, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

What You Need to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:

Ingredients (Quick Recipe):

• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1/2-1 pound ground beef, cooked
• Cheddar or Colby Jack cheese, sliced (about 9 slices)

Ingredients (Semi-Homemade):

• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups water
• 1/2-1 pound ground beef, cooked
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 13.9 oz Pacific Foods mushroom gravy
• 1/2 cup milk
• Colby Jack or medium cheddar cheese, for topping

Ingredients (From Scratch):

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup onion, minced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup white button mushrooms, minced
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1/2 cup cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1/2-1 pound ground beef, cooked
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• Cheddar or Colby Jack cheese, for topping

How to Make Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:

1. For the Quick Recipe:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray an 8×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
   • Stir together the cream of mushroom soup, rice, water, carrots, and cooked beef.
   • Pour the mixture into the baking dish and bake for 90 minutes.
   • Top with cheese slices and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
2. For the Semi-Homemade Recipe:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease an 8×9-inch baking dish.
   • Whisk together the water, mushroom gravy, and milk.
   • Stir in the rice, cooked beef, and carrots.
   • Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and bake uncovered for 90 minutes.
   • Add cheese slices on top and return to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted.
3. For the From Scratch Recipe:
   • In a medium pan over medium heat, melt the butter.
   • Add the minced onion, garlic, and mushrooms, cooking until softened.
   • Stir in the flour and cook for 30-60 seconds.
   • Gradually add the cream and chicken broth, cooking until thickened.
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F and spray an 8×9-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
   • In the dish, combine the cream mixture, rice, water, cooked beef, and carrots.
   • Bake for 90 minutes, then add cheese and bake for a few more minutes until the cheese is melted.
4. Serve:
   • Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!

Tips for the Best Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:

• Make sure to cook the ground beef fully before adding it to the casserole to ensure it’s seasoned and ready.
• Use a mix of cheese for extra flavor—cheddar and Colby Jack work especially well.
• For extra veggies, feel free to add peas, corn, or bell peppers to the casserole for added nutrition and color.

Common Questions About This Recipe:

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Definitely! You can use any cheese you prefer—cheddar, mozzarella, or even a mix of cheeses for added flavor.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just bake it as instructed when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of meat?
You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a meatless option like plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.

Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes! Once baked and cooled, you can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to serve.

This Cheesy Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is an easy and delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re using the quick, semi-homemade, or from-scratch method, it’s always a hit!

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