Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole

Move over Hamburger Helper, there’s a new casserole in town!

This easy ground beef and rice casserole are perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy meal.

I am always looking for new and interesting ways to eat ground beef. This Ground Beef and Rice Casserole recipe is definitely a keeper!

The best part is that it is so easy to make. You just need some basic ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. I can’t wait to share this recipe with my friends and family. Be sure to give it a try yourself!

Happy cooking!

Scroll to bottom for printable recipe card.

Why do I love Ground Beef and Rice Casserole?

There are so many reasons to love this hamburger rice casserole! First, it is a one-pan meal, which means less mess and fewer dishes to wash. Second, it is packed with flavor. The ground beef is cooked in a simple tomato sauce and then mixed with cheesy rice and topped with melted cheese. Yum!

Another great thing about this casserole is that it can be easily customized to your liking. Don’t like tomatoes? Leave them out. Want to add some veggies? Go for it! This recipe is very versatile and can be tailored to your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• Cooked rice
• Ground beef
• Chicken broth
• Onions
• Sour cream
• Garlic powder
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Tomato sauce
• Frozen green peas
• Salt and pepper and oregano to taste

How to make Ground Beef and Rice Casserole:

Step 1. Place the onions and ground beef into a skillet over medium-high heat, and saute until the meat is browned and the onions have softened. 

Step 2. Mix in the garlic, and saute for another 30 seconds. Drain the extra grease. 

Step 3. Reduce the heat to medium, and season the mixture with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. 

Step 4. Mix in the tomato sauce, rice, peas, broth, and one cup of cheese. Simmer the mixture until the cheese has melted. 

Step 5. Spread the mixture into a well-greased casserole dish, and bake for 15 minutes in a 250-degree preheated oven. 

Step 6. Blend together the sour cream and remaining cheese in a bowl. 

Step 7. Spread the sour cream mixture over the casserole.

Then, bake for another 15-20 minutes. 

THANKS FOR PINING!

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Tips

1. Be sure to cook the rice before adding it to the casserole. This will help ensure that the rice is fully cooked and prevents it from absorbing too much liquid from the sauce.
2. I like to use lean ground beef for this recipe, but you can use whatever ground beef you have on hand.
3. Feel free to add any additional toppings that you like. Some good options include chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, or sour cream.
4. This casserole can be easily reheated. Simply place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through.
5. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Ground Beef and Rice Casserole Variations

There are so many delicious ways to change up this hamburger rice casserole! Here are a few of my favorite variations:

• Instead of using white rice, try using brown rice or quinoa for a healthier version.
• For a Tex-Mex twist, add some diced green chilies, cumin, and chili powder to the beef mixture.
• Mix in some frozen corn or diced carrots for an added pop of color and flavor.
• Add a layer of chopped onion or green pepper between the beef and rice for extra veggie goodness.
• Use Velveeta cheese in place of shredded cheese for an ultra-cheesy casserole.

More beef casserole ideas?

Ground Beef Casserole – The perfect ground beef you can try.

Beef Noodle Casserole Recipe – Ideal for busy weeknights.

Mexican Casserole with Beef – This comforting Mexican Casserole is something that you are going to enjoy all winter long.